The All European Awami League has sharply condemned what it called the interim government’s “attempt to erase the history of the Bengali liberation struggle.” The organization expressed outrage over the decision to cancel eight national days, including March 7 and August 15.
In a joint statement, All European Awami League President M. Nazrul Islam and General Secretary Mojibur Rahman voiced their surprise at the government's move.
“The historic Speech Day on March 7 is recognized by UNESCO, and August 15 is the biggest day of mourning for Bengalis. The importance of these days in our national history is immense,” they said.
The organization accused “allies of Pakistan” within Bangladesh of sowing chaos through violence and militancy, which they claim ultimately led to the forced departure of Sheikh Hasina from the country on August 5.
The statement further alleged that, after seizing state power, these groups targeted iconic symbols of the liberation struggle. "They set fire to the historic Dhanmondi 32 house," the statement noted, referencing the residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The All European Awami League reported that murals and sculptures of Bangabandhu, as well as monuments honoring the freedom struggle, were defaced, destroyed, and uprooted across the country, including in the capital, Dhaka.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman led Bangladesh’s fight for independence, and his legacy remains deeply entrenched in the nation’s identity, the organization said. The statement emphasized that his family, including his wife, Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatun Nessa Mujib, played an irreplaceable role in supporting him during the liberation movement. “Their contribution cannot be erased,” they said.
“There is no precedent in the world for erasing history by pressing the reset button,” the statement continued. “It is impossible to erase the national history of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu, and the Bengali people.”
