On the first anniversary of the historic student-led mass uprising of August 5, 2024, the interim government on Tuesday unveiled the ‘July Declaration’, a political charter pledging to build a fascism-free, democratic, and just Bangladesh. The declaration also calls for the state and constitutional recognition of the 2024 uprising.
The document was formally read out by Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus at a public gathering at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, in the presence of political leaders, activists, and members of the public.
The declaration strongly criticizes the past one and a half decades of governance, labeling it as “fascist, undemocratic, and anti-people.” It accuses the previous regime of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, suppression of free speech, dismantling constitutional institutions, and attempting to establish one-party rule. It also cites banking scandals, massive corruption, money laundering, and a collapse of the national economy, along with the fraudulent elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024, and a discriminatory quota system in public service that triggered public outrage.
The document notes that the violent crackdown on the anti-discrimination student protests escalated into a nationwide uprising, with participation from all segments of society—political, religious, social, cultural, professional, and labor organizations. According to the declaration, fascist forces killed nearly 1,000 people, including women and children, and left many others maimed or blinded.
In the final phase of the movement, elements within the military expressed solidarity with the people’s democratic struggle. On August 5, 2024, amid a massive public march towards the Prime Minister’s residence, then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country, leading to the dissolution of the 12th Parliament. An interim government led by Dr Yunus was subsequently formed.
Key Commitments of the July Declaration:
State & Constitutional Recognition: The 2024 mass uprising will be officially recognized by the state and constitution. The next elected government will include the declaration in the revised constitution’s annex.
Democratic Governance: The establishment of a democratic, just, and humane state based on equality, dignity, and social justice.
Rule of Law & Good Governance: Ensuring the rule of law, good governance, fair elections, economic and social justice, and preventing any return to fascist rule.
Justice & Accountability: Swift and appropriate trials for all crimes committed under the former fascist regime, including disappearances, killings, massacres, crimes against humanity, and the looting of public assets.
Protection of Martyrs & Victims: Declaring the martyrs of the July uprising as national heroes and ensuring full legal protection and support for their families, the injured, and all participants in the movement.
Constitutional Reforms: Comprehensive constitutional reforms will be initiated through a freely elected national parliament to establish a democratic system rooted in justice, equality, and values.
Sustainable Development: The new development strategy will be climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable, ensuring the rights of both current and future generations.
The July Declaration is being hailed as a reflection of the will of the people of victorious Bangladesh, following the transformative uprising of 2024.
