The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced a series of month-long programs to mark the anniversary of the July–August mass uprising.
The announcement came during a press briefing at the party’s central office in Naya Paltan on Tuesday. Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi led the briefing.
The programs include political gatherings, art initiatives, public discussions, and volunteer activities.
One of the key events is a public meeting on July 1, where family members of those killed or injured in the uprising will participate.
On July 12, the party’s student wing, Chhatra Dal, will organize a virtual discussion between BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman and the families of the victims.
Memorials and Public Action Planned Across Cities
Other events include a memorial gathering in Rangpur and Chattogram on July 15 to remember Shahid Abu Sayeed and Waseem, both of whom died during the unrest.
On July 26, BNP will organize a graffiti and protest music event titled “Road to July” at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka.
Volunteer efforts are also part of the schedule. On July 28, the Swechchhasebak Dal will conduct a mosquito-breeding ground cleanup campaign to prevent dengue and COVID-19 spread.
On August 2, BNP’s Dhaka North and South city units will host street theater performances.
A student rally is set to be held at the Central Shaheed Minar on August 3.
The final event will be a victory march on August 6, organized by BNP’s central leadership.
Focus on Youth and Social Media
During the press conference, Rizvi laid out the game plan for their new campaign. He confirmed a national committee will be overseeing the main events, but also mentioned they’re getting social media influencers and youth groups involved to shake things up.
“One of the highlights will be a public discussion at the Shaheed Minar,” Rizvi said. “It’s being arranged by our national implementation committee and will feature voices from young people and digital platforms.”
Chhatra Dal is also expected to host a youth-focused program at the TSC area of Dhaka University on July 15.
The BNP has framed the campaign as a public movement to remember what it calls a people’s uprising and to rally support across a broader section of society.
