Before the election, justice for martyrs of the Mass Uprising is a must: Barrister Omar Faruk

Barrister Omar Faruk, the General Secretary of Bangladesh Jan Odhikar Party, has called for swift justice regarding the killings that occurred during the mass uprising, before the upcoming national elections. 

Speaking to supporters in Noakhali on Saturday, he highlighted the need for public awareness campaigns to counter the influence of black money in the political process.

Omar Faruk, who has been actively engaged in spreading awareness, particularly about fair voting, criticized political advisors who, according to him, have used the sacrifices of the people for their own personal gain. 

He said, “They use my blood to hold red and blue flags and enjoy air-conditioned offices.” 

Faruk demanded that the government urgently address issues like controlling inflation, curbing extortion, and putting an end to the violence and mob justice that have plagued the nation. 

He questioned the role of advisors, especially those who are elderly and no longer capable of working effectively, calling for a new generation to take charge. 

“If law and order are not maintained, who should I turn to for support?” he asked, stressing the need for a change in leadership to resolve these issues.

On the sensitive matter of justice for those who died during the mass uprising, Faruk argued that it should be the top priority. 

“Many demands are being made regarding the election, and this is only natural. We do not oppose these demands. However, we believe the top priority should be the immediate justice for those who were killed during the mass uprising and for those responsible for their deaths. If the major political parties do not address this issue first, it will be a betrayal of the martyrs," Faruk said.

In his speech, he also named victims of the uprising, including Abu Said, Mugdho, and Yamin, and emphasized the importance of seeking justice for them. "All political parties should focus on demanding justice for these deaths," he insisted.

Faruk also addressed the political climate surrounding the election, saying, "I want to vote, but I want a fair and clean election environment before the vote. The election field must be leveled." 

He commended the administration for holding past offenders accountable, while criticizing those who used goons and corruption to manipulate the system. 

"If there is no justice for those who have carried out crimes using goons, I will not accept this election," he declared.

For the last two days, Faruk has been leading a public awareness campaign in Noakhali’s Chatkhil Upazila. 

With slogans such as "No vote for money, no money for votes," he has been urging people to stay vigilant and participate in a transparent election process.