Dhaka: State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj today emphasized that the July Mass Uprising was not the sole achievement of any individual, political party, or group, but rather the result of the collective aspirations and participation of people from various classes, professions, and ideological backgrounds. He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion titled ‘Voices of July: Youth, Resolve and Resistance’, organized by the Canadian University of Bangladesh, according to an official handout.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister highlighted that the true significance of the July Mass Uprising cannot be comprehended if it is viewed merely as a specific movement. He noted that several movements, each beginning with different demands, expectations, and aspirations, eventually transformed into a broader mass uprising. Bobby pointed out that although people had different demands and positions, an overarching common aspiration emerged that emphasized the importance of running the state and government for the people, ensuring citizens’ rights and dignity.
Emphasizing the responsibilities of young people, Bobby stated that the responsibilities of citizens do not end with a change of government. Instead, holding the government accountable after it assumes office is even more critical. He urged university students to remain aware and actively engaged in this regard, highlighting the necessity of their involvement in establishing a democratic, constitutional, and accountable state system by upholding the spirit of the Mass Uprising.
‘Differences in political ideology are natural in a democratic society,’ he continued. ‘One person may support one political party, while another may support a different party. However, the interests of the country and the state must be placed above parties or individuals. A political party may be important, but the country is the most important,’ Bobby asserted.
He concluded by stating, ‘Whichever government is in power, the system of government must always remain accountable to the people-this is our fundamental expectation.’ The event also featured State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Md Nurul Hoque as the main speaker and Chowdhury Zafarullah Sharafat, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Canadian University of Bangladesh, as a special guest.