President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called on people from all walks of life, regardless of political affiliations, to unite in building a democratic, justice-based, humane and secure Bangladesh, inspired by the spirit of the Great National Revolution and Solidarity Day.

He made the call in a message issued on Friday (November 6) marking the Great National Revolution and Solidarity Day, observed on November 7.

The president said the November 7, 1975 revolution by soldiers and civilians was an unforgettable day in the national history of Bangladesh. At a critical juncture in the country’s history, the united uprising of soldiers and civilians helped Bangladesh regain its independence and sovereignty. During the events, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman was freed from confinement, and with the wholehearted support of the people, he was entrusted with the responsibility of running the state and overcoming the national crisis.

In his message, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the solidarity between soldiers and civilians was an unprecedented awakening inspired by the spirit of independence. The same spirit was revived during the mass uprising of 2024. Through the unity of students, men and women, members of the armed forces and people from all walks of life, 16 years of fascist rule came to an end. As a result, Bangladesh was saved from the danger of becoming a subservient state.

The president said the November 7 revolution and solidarity hold immense significance in the nation’s history. In its aftermath, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman restored multiparty democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of speech and the press.

He also said Ziaur Rahman worked to achieve economic emancipation and social peace, freed Bangladesh from a submissive foreign policy, and led the nation towards development, progress and prosperity based on Bangladeshi nationalism while establishing good governance at all levels.

Highlighting the country’s current political situation, the president said conspiracies had repeatedly been carried out against national independence and sovereignty, democracy had been undermined, and fascist misrule had taken hold.

However, through collective efforts and under the leadership of an elected government, the country had once again embarked on the path to democracy, he said.

The president stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions and all other state institutions to sustain this progress. He also called for mutual respect and dialogue to resolve national problems, with Parliament serving as the central forum.

He said the aspirations of November 7 should be realised by governing the country in the interests of the nation and its people, guided by the philosophy of “Bangladesh First”. National interests, equality, fairness and democratic practices, he added, would receive the highest priority.

The president urged citizens to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty and work to eliminate corruption, inequality and all conspiracies, inspired by the spirit of November 7.

He also wished success for all programmes organised to observe the Great National Revolution and Solidarity Day.