Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized the collective effort of the July fighters in achieving democracy and fair rights, highlighting that no individual actions stood alone but rather the unity of the movement was its true strength. “This unity is our strength,” she stated at the ‘July Uprising Anniversary Celebration’ held at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Adviser Akhter expressed her gratitude to all the injured and participants of the uprising, acknowledging the bravery of those involved. “I salute you. We have got this day today because of your bravery,” she remarked, underscoring the significance of their courage in the historical movement.
Addressing the student community, she highlighted their pivotal role in saving the country and securing democracy, which she asserted was not gifted but earned through their vocal efforts. “Democracy was not given to us by anyone. It is the fruit of your voice. We have to show respect to that voice,” she emphasized.
Akhter also shared her personal involvement during the movement, revealing her active participation alongside the student community through the ‘Khuddho Nari Samaj’ platform. The event was chaired by AUST Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Ashraful Haque and featured speeches from AUST Chairman Professor Dr. Golam Rahman, Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muh. Mahbubur Rahman, and students Shafi Ahmed Ullah, Arefin Faisal Alvi, Touhid Hasan Rimon, and Mostakim Billah Shrestho, who spoke on behalf of the July fighters.
In a celebratory conclusion, Adviser Akhter awarded prizes to the winners of a photography competition held in honor of the anniversary of the July uprising.