Dhaka: As the one-year anniversary of the transformative student-people uprising of July 2024 approaches, Ali Ahsan Zonaed, a pivotal figure in the movement and current Convener of ‘United People’s Bangladesh (UP Bangladesh),’ shares his firsthand experiences and insights on the uprising that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s regime.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the uprising was marked by extraordinary courage and unity among citizens from all walks of life. Despite severe curfews, internet blackouts, and mass arrests, the movement persevered, culminating in Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country on August 5, 2024. Zonaed, who was deeply involved in the movement’s leadership and organizational strategy, recounts the events that he witnessed, including the tragic deaths of over 50 individuals during the protests.
Zonaed describes the movement as having multiple layers of leadership, which helped sustain its momentum even after the detention of front-line coordinators. He highlights the role of second and third-tier organizers in maintaining the movement’s policy direction, coordination, and communication. He recalls the intense discussions with key figures such as Mahfuz Alam, Asif Mahmud, and Nahid Islam on the night of Hasina’s departure, during which a preliminary framework for interim governance was drafted.
In his interview, Zonaed reflects on specific incidents that stood out to him, including the rally at Dhaka University on July 14 and the subsequent events that followed. He vividly recalls the courage and determination of the people, especially during the violent confrontations with police and RAB forces. Zonaed also emphasizes the significance of the ‘March for Justice’ program, which revitalized the movement at a critical juncture.
The conversation also sheds light on the unity that emerged across different social strata and political affiliations during the uprising, and the pivotal role of social media in mobilizing support despite government-imposed communication blackouts. Zonaed notes the involvement of private universities and madrasa students, which contributed to a broader national unity against the regime.
Zonaed offers a candid account of the personal risks involved in participating in the uprising, including potential threats to his family. He praises the support he received from his family, who stood by him throughout the movement. Reflecting on the current state of unity among the movement’s participants, Zonaed acknowledges the challenges faced in translating the uprising’s spirit into lasting reforms but remains hopeful that the aspirations of July will endure.
The interview concludes with Zonaed’s vision for a Bangladesh where political unity prevails on national interests, free from fascism and discrimination. He emphasizes the importance of a permanent, unified approach to foreign policy and defense, ensuring a peaceful and developed nation.