Rangpur: National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam stated that Rangpur’s rebellion history serves as an inspiration to dream of a new Bangladesh, emphasizing that the region’s history is rooted in rebellion. “Rangpur has given rise to rebellions time and again. Starting from the Rangpur peasant rebellion, the sacrifice of the peasant son Abu Sayeed has inspired us in the movement. We keep the history of the struggle of the oppressed peasants in mind,” he declared during the closing speech of the first day’s July walkathon on the anniversary of the ‘July Mass Uprising’ at the DC intersection in Rangpur city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nahid Islam emphasized the impact of the slogans of the National Citizen Party on the streets of Rangpur. “We want to go to the alleys of the country like Rangpur. We want to tell our dreams. We want to hear people’s words. We will return to Dhaka now and materialize the July Declaration and Charter, InshaAllah,” he expressed.
Nahid Islam highlighted that the spark of the July movement ignited from Rangpur, acknowledging Abu Sayeed, a student from Begum Rokeya University, whose sacrifice motivated others to stand against oppressive regimes. “We have cherished the inspiration of giving our lives for ages,” he noted, stressing the role of Rangpur’s student community in nation-building efforts.
The NCP leader urged unity and the spread of the July walkathon’s message nationwide. He remarked that the movement was not only against a fascist regime but also for a new political settlement. “The July walkathon is not just a programme, it is a necessary initiative for nation building. We will talk to the people through this programme,” he said.
Nahid Islam reiterated the commitment to the dreams of martyred Abu Sayeed and the July Uprising, focusing on justice, reform, and a new constitution. “A new political settlement must be established through a new constitution. So, the July Charter is not just a demand, it is a commitment,” he stated, emphasizing the journey’s continuation.
The nationwide walkathon began with a visit to the grave of martyred Abu Sayeed in Babanpur village. NCP leaders paid tribute to Sayeed, consoled his family, and sought blessings from his mother, Monwara Begum. The emotional visit ended with the leaders leaving for Gaibandha as part of the ‘Desh Garte July Padayatra’ (‘July Walkathon for Building the Nation’).
In Rangpur, the walkathon commenced at 6:30 pm at Shaheed Abu Sayeed Square, covering key city locations and culminating in a street rally with speeches from various NCP leaders. The event saw participation from several central and local leaders, marking a significant moment in the NCP’s ongoing efforts for national change.