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Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, Bir Bikram on Wednesday expressed deep regret and disappointment over disorder, the use of abusive language and chants of “fake, fake” during a state function, describing the incident as unfortunate.
He made the remarks while addressing the Reception and Discussion for Families of July Martyrs and July Uprising Fighters as the chief guest at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Exhibition Center in the capital.
The programme was disrupted after some participants protested the omission of Abu Sayed, recognised as the first martyr of the July uprising, and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia from an official documentary screened at the event.
Addressing the audience, the Acting President said shouting abusive words or chanting “fake, fake” during a state function was inappropriate and deeply regrettable.
He also criticised the incident for occurring in the presence of foreign guests, saying mistakes can happen and can be corrected collectively, but such scenes at an official event were embarrassing for the country.
Reflecting on Bangladesh’s history, Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said both the 1971 Liberation War and the July uprising were fought to establish democracy.
“Democracy is not something to be taken lightly. As long as democracy and freedom of expression exist in Bangladesh, our independence and sovereignty will remain intact,” he said.
Recalling his own role in the Liberation War, the 82-year-old Acting President said he had fought for the country’s independence at the age of 27 and remained ready to continue working to safeguard democracy and the people’s right to self-governance.
Paying tribute to the July uprising, he praised the courage of Abu Sayed, saying Bangladeshis are a nation that can stand fearlessly before armed force with raised hands.
He assured those injured in the uprising and the families of those killed that the government would accord them the highest respect and support.
Calling the rehabilitation of bereaved families and treatment of the injured the government’s “most sacred responsibility,” he said the opportunity created by the July uprising should be used to build a democratic, just and corruption-free Bangladesh.
Referring to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, he said many people were waiting for her return to face accountability following allegations of wrongdoing during her tenure.
Concluding his speech, the Acting President urged all citizens to demonstrate unity, restraint and wisdom in safeguarding the country’s national interests, democratic values and sovereignty.