In a recent announcement, Bangladesh’s interim government has cancelled the public holiday on August 15, which traditionally commemorates the death of the country’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This decision was revealed by the advisory council of the interim government and followed a broad consensus reached during political dialogues, according to a report by Bangladeshi news outlet Prothom Alo.
Mixed Reactions from Political Figures
The cancellation has been met with mixed responses from various political factions. While some political leaders support the move, others, including the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, have voiced differing opinions. The holiday, observed as the National Day of Mourning, marks the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975.
Sheikh Hasina Calls for Investigation and Commemoration
In her first public statement since her resignation, Sheikh Hasina, the ousted former Prime Minister and daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has demanded an investigation into the recent violence during quota protests. She also urged the public to observe the National Day of Mourning with dignity and respect by visiting the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum, previously known as her family’s home, which was recently vandalized. Hasina called for the identification and punishment of those responsible for the recent unrest and violence.
