Ganoforum Emeritus President Dr Kamal Hossain has asserted that the ongoing political instability in Bangladesh can only be resolved through political unity.
"This unity has to be founded on national consciousness derived from the Language Movement of '52, the Liberation War of '71, the Constitution of '72, and the spirit of the mass uprising of '24," he said speaking at a press conference titled "Announcement of the Full Central Committee Post-National Council 2024 and Current Political Situation" held at the National Press Club in Dhaka on Sunday (5 January).
Dr Kamal highlighted the achievements secured through the year-long movement, emphasising the need to sustain this momentum.
He stated, "We have accomplished much through our movements, and it is imperative to continue this effort to consolidate the unity of the people. It is through this unity that we can achieve everything. Therefore, we have always prioritised unity. Division weakens our strength, so let us collectively intensify the street movements to realise our aspirations for the country."
In his written statement, Dr Kamal further reiterated the commitments made during the Liberation War, which aimed at establishing equality, human dignity, and justice.
"Even after 53 years, the desired Bangladesh had not been achieved. The spirit of the mass uprising of '24 is aimed at building a democratic, non-discriminatory Bangladesh, fostering national unity among students and the masses," he said.
He urged vigilance to ensure that this youthful strength is utilised in nation-building and not dissipated.
Dr Kamal underscored the importance of upholding the dreams and aspirations of the Liberation War and the '24 mass uprising, noting that these historic milestones complement each other in the pursuit of a democratic and humane Bangladesh free from discrimination.
He stressed the necessity of constitutional amendments or updates to meet the public's expectations, cautioning against questioning the settled matters of the Liberation War, as it could hinder the establishment of a progressive Bangladesh.
"It is our collective responsibility to act prudently in this regard," he remarked.
Reflecting on the past, Dr Kamal criticised the partisan manipulation that rendered democratic institutions ineffective, calling for their reform and the establishment of a conducive environment for free, fair, and impartial elections.
He expressed support for the interim government led by Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, urging all political parties and the populace to provide the necessary time and cooperation to enable the successful implementation of the desired reforms.
Dr Kamal reminisced about the formation of Ganoforum on 29 August 1993, conceived as a platform for establishing healthy politics in contrast to the prevailing political ailments, with contributions from esteemed politicians, academics, diplomats, legal professionals, intellectuals, and conscious citizens.
The newly formed central committee was announced following the National Council in November 2024.
Dr Kamal expressed optimism about the new leadership, hopeful that they would uphold Ganoforum's declared policies and ideals, thereby fulfilling the aspirations of the people. He encouraged the committee to foster collaboration among all democratic political parties, individuals, and civil society.
