He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion titled 'Voices of July: Youth, Resolve, Resistance,' organised by the Canadian University of Bangladesh in Dhaka today.
The State Minister said that the true significance of the July uprising cannot be understood if it is viewed merely as a specific movement. Multiple movements, launched with different demands, expectations, and aspirations, eventually merged into a larger popular uprising. Some took to the streets for jobs, some for democracy and rights, and others to protest injustice. Despite differing demands and positions, ultimately, a common ground emerged in the people's aspirations—that the state and government should function for the people and ensure citizens' rights and dignity.
The State Minister said that even the spirit of historic achievements like the great Liberation War had once been appropriated by political ownership. As a result, a tendency developed to view the spirit of a great national achievement as the exclusive property of a particular political party or group. Everyone must remain vigilant so that the same situation does not arise regarding the July uprising.
Emphasising the responsibility of the youth, the State Minister said that a citizen's duty does not end with a change of government. Rather, the responsibility to hold the government accountable after its formation is even more important. Urging university students to be aware and active on this issue, he said, "You will not only make demands but will also monitor whether the government and public representatives are properly fulfilling their duties. It is the citizens' responsibility to question whether any minister, MP, or public representative is working according to people's expectations."
He further said that differences in political ideology are natural in a democratic society. One may support one party, another may support another. But the interests of the country and the state must take precedence over parties or individuals. "A party may be important, but the country is most important. Whoever is in power, our core expectation is that the government system remains always accountable to the people," said the State Minister.
The event was attended by State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque Nur as the main speaker. Special guest Chowdhury Zafrullah Sharafat, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Canadian University of Bangladesh, along with teachers and students from various faculties of the university, were also present.
