(BSS) - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed today said the anti-fascist unity formed in Bangladesh after the July mass uprising is the nation`s only strength.

"I hope the anti-fascist unity that has been formed in Bangladesh after the mass uprising will remain among us. I believe this unity is the nation`s only strength that will lead us forward," he said as the chief guest at a discussion to mark the anniversary of the historic July mass uprising.

Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chatra Dal (JCD) arranged the event, held at Dhaka University`s TSC auditorium.

The meeting was attended by representatives from various student organizations, different social-cultural institutions and online platforms.

Pointing figure to those conspiring against this unity, he questioned, "Who are those trying to create division within this unity today? Have they forgotten all the oppression, torture, disappearances, and murders, and do they want fascism to return?"

Referring to the July mass uprising and the interim government Salahuddin said, “We will properly recognize the July mass uprising. The July mass uprising and the interim government will have constitutional and state recognition. The legitimacy of the July mass uprising will be mentioned in the Fourth Chapter of the Constitution, and the legitimacy of the interim government will be mentioned in Article 106”.

Regarding the July Declaration the BNP leader said, “We submitted the July Declaration five months ago. On June 9, we were asked for a refined version again, which we provided. Therefore, our position on the July Declaration is clear, and there is no room for spreading confusion about it”.

Demanding justice for the disappearances, murders, and extrajudicial killings of the past 17 years by the Awami League, he stated, "The Awami League must be brought to justice for its misdeeds as a political party. All leaders, activists, and associates involved in these wrongdoings must be brought under the purview of justice. Awami League will not be allowed to engage in politics in Bangladesh under its name any longer”.

JCD president Rakibul Islam Rakib presided over the event and General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir moderated it.
Leaders and activists from various units of the JCD, including central Dhaka University and Dhaka Mohanagar, took part in the discussion.