"Never Allow an Autocrat to Rule Us Again"

Harmony, Reform, Justice, and Remembrance: Reflections on the July Uprising

The July uprising brought together families of martyrs, survivors, student leaders, and citizens, all united in their demands for justice, equity, and a nation free from oppression. At the inauguration of a week-long exhibition, "36 Days of July—Saluting the Bravehearts", held at The Daily Star Centre, voices filled the room with powerful calls for reform and remembrance.

Fatema Khatun, the mother of Mamun Hossain—a chauffeur fatally shot on July 19—delivered a heartfelt message. “Never again let an autocrat rule us. You, the authorities, must not become slaves to power. You survive because of the people,” she said. Recalling her prayers upon hearing of her son’s injury, she reflected, “When it rained after his death, I believed it was Allah’s blessing, cleansing the country of an autocrat.”

Shamsi Ara Zaman, mother of martyred journalist Tahir Zaman Priyo, emphasized the need for empathy over power. “The parents of martyrs do not seek power, only understanding,” she said, criticizing media outlets for enabling recklessness in governance. “I did not cry for Priyo—freedom requires sacrifices. But our media must refocus on truth and justice.”

Sabrina Afroz Sabonti, who lost her 19-year-old brother, Mahamudur Rahman Saikot, to police gunfire, spoke of the need to honor the sacrifices of the fallen. “We cannot betray the martyrs. My brother was killed trying to save his friend. I demand justice for him and all others.”

Other speakers shared similar grief. Abul Bashar Anik recounted his brother Mohammed Sajal’s final words before succumbing to his injuries: “Alhamdulillah,” he said, smiling, upon hearing of the regime’s fall. Anik demanded accountability for those responsible for the killings.

The exhibition also shed light on the experiences of the injured. Muhammad Imran Hossain, who lost his eyesight during protests in Uttara, expressed hope for better care. “Proper treatment can improve our lives. We protested for justice, and yet we were met with violence.”

Youth and Unity: A New Call for Reform
Student leaders highlighted the importance of preserving the spirit of unity. “The success of our movement lies in the collective courage of students, parents, and everyday citizens,” said Sayma Sultana of BRAC University.

Masud Rana, a coordinator from Rajshahi University, called for vigilance against division and communal unrest. “India seeks to exploit artificial divisions in our nation. We must protect our sovereignty and unity.”

Shyamoli Sultana of ULAB stressed self-reform as a precursor to state reform. “Respect for differing views is critical. Disrespect creates divisions that can be exploited by those who wish harm upon our nation.”

Other coordinators, including Shahinur Shumi from Eden Mohila College, advocated for media freedom and independent judiciary reforms. “Without truth, we cannot build a democratic nation,” she said, urging people to uphold the principles of free expression and fair governance.

Preserving the Legacy
Prof. Gitiara Nasreen of Dhaka University urged citizens to remember the sacrifices of July. “The events of 2024 taught us to speak out against fascism. We must preserve this courage and ensure that their sacrifices lead to meaningful change.”

The exhibition at The Daily Star Centre, filled with photographs, news clippings, and personal stories, served as a poignant reminder of the price paid for freedom and reform. Visitors, including Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam, were deeply moved. “These sacrifices must not be in vain,” he said.

The July uprising remains a testament to the collective strength of people striving for justice, equity, and a democratic future.