He made these remarks as the chief guest at a reception and discussion meeting for families of July martyrs and July fighters, organized by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in the capital on Wednesday (August 5).
The Acting President said that no remorse is visible among them regarding the activities of the Awami League. He alleged that despite allegations of various injustices, disappearances, killings, torture, and money laundering, the party has no tendency for self-criticism.
He further said that he participated in the Liberation War at the age of 27, and even now at 82, he is prepared to join the struggle for the country's needs.
Regarding those killed and injured in the July Uprising, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said that standing by the families of the martyrs and ensuring treatment and rehabilitation for the injured is one of the government's primary responsibilities. He also assured that they will be provided with the maximum assistance according to the state's capacity.
Emphasizing the importance of democracy, he said that just as the Liberation War of 1971 was a struggle to establish democracy, the July movement was also aimed at establishing democratic rights. Referring to elections as an integral part of democracy, he said that as long as people's freedom of expression and democracy remain intact, the country's independence and sovereignty will also be protected.
Stressing the importance of national unity, he said that despite political differences, everyone must work together on matters of national interest, democracy, and independence-sovereignty.
The Acting President also expressed regret over the commotion created at the event centering on the absence of photos of Abu Saeed, the first martyr of the July Uprising, and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in a documentary shown at the event. He said that such disorder at a state event is undesirable, and in the presence of foreign guests, such a situation does not carry a positive message for the country's political culture.
