The Bangladeshi government announced on Thursday that August 5 will be designated a national public holiday to commemorate the first anniversary of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country in 2024 following widespread protests.
Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki confirmed the decision during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy, as reported by The Dhaka Tribune. The announcement marks a significant shift in the national calendar, as the government seeks to memorialize what officials are calling the “July Uprising”—the mass demonstrations that led to the fall of the Awami League government.
Farooki said the change would be formalized through a Gazette notification following an upcoming Advisory Council meeting scheduled for Sunday. According to the announcement, a series of commemorative programs will begin on July 1, with major events planned from July 14 through August 1.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam was also present at the press conference.
Legal Proceedings Against Hasina Advance
The announcement comes as legal proceedings continue against Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan. On Monday, the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) summoned both figures to appear in court on June 24, accusing them of crimes against humanity related to last year’s protests.
The tribunal labeled the former officials as fugitives and ordered authorities to issue public notices summoning them to face charges, including allegations of murder and torture of political activists. Hasina fled to India in August 2024 amid growing unrest, shortly before Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was appointed as Interim Chief Adviser.
Despite multiple attempts by law enforcement to detain Hasina and Khan, both remain at large, according to the prosecution. Meanwhile, former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, currently in custody, is expected to be tried alongside the former prime minister and home minister.
Broader Political Implications
The declaration of the new public holiday underscores the Yunus-led interim government’s efforts to reshape the national narrative following the ousting of the long-dominant Awami League. Critics argue that the absence of the Awami League from the political process raises concerns about the inclusiveness and legitimacy of upcoming elections.
The developments signal a dramatic shift in Bangladesh’s political landscape as the country grapples with both transitional governance and the pursuit of accountability for alleged abuses under the previous administration.
