Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today called upon the nation to focus on nation-building and avoid conspiracies, following the recent fall of fascism and the establishment of an elected government. He emphasized the importance of stability and unity during his address at a photo exhibition and discussion titled '15 Years of Fascism and the Mass Uprising of 2024' held at the Jatiya Press Club.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was jointly organized by the Bangladesh Photo Journalists Association (BPJA) and 'Amra BNP Paribar'. Minister Swapon highlighted the significant role played by democratic movements against autocracy and fascism, led by Begum Khaleda Zia and Deshnayak Tarique Rahman, culminating in the mass uprising of 2024. He commended the younger generation's courage and the enduring struggle for democratic values, which led to their triumph.
Swapon further elaborated on the February 12 election, where citizens exercised their voting rights, entrusting Tarique Rahman's government with the state's leadership. "Post-uprising, our focus should be on nation-building," he asserted, dismissing any potential for political confusion. He warned against propaganda and artificial crises propagated through social media, stressing that the government would take necessary measures to safeguard state security and public welfare.
Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan praised the photo exhibition, noting its significance in educating future generations about the fascist misrule and the 2024 mass uprising. He emphasized the exhibition's role in preserving the historical narrative and recognizing the sacrifices made.
Bangladesh Federal Journalists Union Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury criticized actions contrary to the spirit of the mass uprising, urging the government to adopt a firm stance against such practices. He called for justice for the families of martyrs and the injured from the 17-year democratic movement, which culminated in 2024.
PID Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed underscored Begum Khaleda Zia's relentless struggle to restore democracy, urging unity against fascist conspiracies rather than creating divisions.
Presiding over the event, Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary and 'Amra BNP Paribar' Convener Atikur Rahman Ruman acknowledged the collective national effort in the 2024 movement. He highlighted the indispensable contributions of common citizens and called for collaborative efforts in nation-building, warning against anarchy.
The event concluded with the chief guest and attendees visiting the BPJA Gallery, appreciating the dedication of photojournalists during the nation's critical times, as noted by Prime Minister's Deputy Press Secretary-1 Zahidul Islam Rony, BPJA President AKM Mohsin, and General Secretary Babul Talukdar.