Mushfiq calls for unity to thwart plots against democracy

Ambassador Mushfiq Calls for Unity to Resist Anti-Democratic Plots

Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Mexico, Mushfiqul Fazal Ansaree, has urged unity to counter ongoing conspiracies against democracy, cautioning that individuals evading justice continue to scheme against the country’s democratic progress.

He made these remarks at a discussion titled “July Uprising and the March towards Democracy”, hosted by the Bangladesh Embassy in Mexico on Friday to commemorate the anniversary of the historic July-August mass movement that helped restore democracy in Bangladesh, according to a statement received today.

Ambassador Mushfiq drew parallels between the ousted Sheikh Hasina regime and Mussolini’s fascist rule, saying, “Hasina’s autocracy mirrored Mussolini’s both in form and function. Like Mussolini’s reliance on black-shirted militias, Hasina deployed a helmet-wielding Chhatra League to crush dissent. No one—students, journalists, political activists, or ordinary citizens—was safe under her rule.”

He recalled how key democratic institutions were dismantled and freedom of speech stifled during the previous government’s tenure. “At one point, many believed Bangladesh would never be free again. That illusion was broken by the united struggle of students, youth, workers, and progressive forces who reclaimed democracy through sacrifice and collective courage.”

Highlighting the inclusive nature of the democratic movement, he said it was not the victory of a single group but a shared achievement—driven by mothers, fathers, students, teachers, and laborers alike.

Paying homage to the nearly 2,000 martyrs of the uprising, Mushfiq stressed, “Their sacrifice must not be forgotten. Those responsible for repression and mass killings must face justice.”

He noted that the interim government inherited a severely damaged state, plagued by 15 years of authoritarian rule, political patronage, and institutional decay. “The civil service, once impartial, had been reduced to a propaganda tool. Comprehensive reforms—especially within the bureaucracy—are crucial to restoring public trust.”

Warning of persistent threats, the ambassador said, “The forces that once undermined democracy remain active. If we allow them to divide us, their path back to power becomes easier. We must stay united and prevent our differences from becoming divisions.”

Reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance approach to human trafficking, he emphasized the importance of safe, legal, and regulated migration pathways. “We are fully committed to prosecuting traffickers and protecting our people,” he added.

Ambassador Mushfiq also invited the Bangladeshi expatriate community in Mexico to take part in upcoming events celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties between Bangladesh and Mexico, including a special photography exhibition.

The event opened with a minute of silence in memory of the July martyrs, followed by a documentary screening, a painting exhibition commemorating the uprising, and performances of patriotic songs. Attendees were later served traditional Bangladeshi food.