FROM PAGE 2

leaders, his contribution to the birth of Bangladesh is undeniable. Therefore, we will give Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, pre-1972, his due importance.”

Mahfuj said, “Some freedom fighters may have become fascist, Islamophobic, or murderous, but the Liberation War itself was a struggle of the masses. The actions of some freedom fighters cannot invalidate or undermine the Liberation War or its participants. Doing so would be treasonous against the foundation of the state!

“We often forget that the first decade after the Liberation War was marked by a struggle between fascist Mujibist freedom fighters and patriotic, anti-Indian freedom fighters. However, even the most anti-imperialist among them never dared to reject the Liberation War itself... ”

He termed the 2024 uprising a continuation of the Liberation War’s historical legacy.

“This uprising was against the ‘fascist Mujibist project’ following the war, against BAKSAL 2.0. However, it reclaimed the Liberation War from the Mujibist project and the Sheikh family.”

Mahfuj also said, “Pro-Bangladesh forces must align with pro-Liberation War values. It is true that many freedom fighters later became fascist collaborators. Today, they have been defeated by students and the masses. Similarly, those opposing the Liberation War will continue to be defeated for standing against the oppressed people of Bangladesh.

“Do not stand against history. We must unconditionally and unequivocally accept the legacy of ’71 and ’24 and move forward together to protect the nation from division.”