Observe the July Uprising annually to guard against the return of autocracy: Chief Adviser

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Tuesday called on the nation to observe the July Uprising every year as a pledge to prevent the return of autocratic rule in Bangladesh.

“In memory of this uprising, we will hold observances every year—not to wait another 16 years for resistance to rise, but to crush dictatorship the moment it begins to emerge,” he said while inaugurating a month-long commemorative programme at his office.

“This is crucial,” he added. “So we can detect and stop authoritarianism before it even sprouts its first leaf.”

Describing the day as a historic milestone, Prof Yunus said the student-led movement of last July ignited a nationwide uprising and gave people a renewed taste of freedom.

“July was a turning point—an awakening of the people in their struggle to restore democracy,” he said.

At the heart of the movement, Prof Yunus noted, was a powerful call: “Eliminate fascism, return the state to the people, and build a new Bangladesh.”

“This programme is not about sentiment or anger—it is about commitment,” he said, emphasising that while the uprising’s immediate goal had been achieved, the broader dream was to rebuild the state and create a democratic future.

He paid tribute to all who took to the streets, calling them enduring symbols of courage, sacrifice, and resolve.

The Chief Adviser stressed that the month-long programme is not only an act of remembrance but also a renewal of collective resolve. “We want to rekindle the unity forged last July—across classes, professions, and generations,” he said.

The aim, Prof Yunus said, is to raise public awareness of democratic rights, ensure political accountability, and seize the reform opportunity won through sacrifice.

“The road ahead is challenging, but filled with possibility,” he said. “History shows that once the people awaken, no force can stand in their way.”

He urged everyone to make July a month of mass awareness and unity. “Throughout July and August, we will revisit the days of the uprising—honouring the students, workers, rickshaw-pullers, and everyday people who were martyred or injured—and renew our commitment to fulfilling their vision.”

“And we will do this every year,” he vowed, “so tyranny never again takes root.”

The Chief Adviser formally inaugurated the month-long programme and wished it success.

Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and Education Adviser CR Abrar also addressed the event.

On the occasion, Prof Yunus unveiled the programme’s QR code and distributed scholarship cheques to three National University students.