Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus described the country's 54th Victory Day as "highly significant" on Monday. This year's celebration marks the first following the fall of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government. Victory Day commemorates Bangladesh's liberation and the surrender of the Pakistani army in 1971. In his address, Yunus highlighted it as the downfall of "the world's worst dictatorial regime" and stated that this Victory Day carries "exceptional importance." Interestingly, he did not mention the country's founding leader Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in his speech.
Tribute to the Nation's Martyrs
Chief Advisor Yunus and President Mohammed Shahabuddin visited the National Memorial in Savar, on the outskirts of Dhaka, to pay homage to the martyrs. In his televised address, Yunus said, "I remember the millions of martyrs, including children, youth, and the elderly, whose sacrifices made our freedom possible." Notably, Yunus did not mention the political leadership of 1971 or Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He reflected, "Due to our mistakes, we couldn't fully realize our achievements. Recently, a 'monstrous dictatorial government' had seized control of the nation, ensuring nothing remained in the country's interest."
Yunus remarked that the downfall of "the world's worst dictatorial government (the Hasina-led Awami League government)," forced by a popular movement, has made this year's Victory Day especially significant. Sheikh Hasina's government fell on August 5 following a student movement, after which she sought refuge in India. Post-Hasina's downfall, Professor Yunus was appointed as the Chief Advisor (equivalent to Prime Minister) to lead an interim government.
Parade Canceled, A Fresh Way to Celebrate
The traditional Victory Day parade in the capital, Dhaka, was not held this year. Liberation War Affairs Advisor Farooq-e-Azam reported that the parade wasn't organized due to the armed forces' engagements. Instead, 'Victory Fairs' were arranged nationwide, showcasing art and craft exhibitions, agricultural products, and domestic goods.
Azam announced, "This year's celebration is inclusive for everyone, with schools organizing their programs." The cultural events ensured the participation of children, women, and men, aimed at fostering a festive atmosphere across all regions.
East Timor's President José Ramos-Horta attended the Victory Day celebration as the chief guest. On this occasion, eight military veterans from India arrived in Dhaka, while eight Bangladesh war heroes participated in the Victory Day event in Kolkata.
