Highlighting the nation’s history of repeated mistakes and setbacks, adviser Mahfuj Alam expressed concern that if the country stumbles again, it may not be able to recover.

He made this statement while addressing the "Youth Festival 2025" organised by the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) at its auditorium in the capital on Tuesday afternoon.

“After bringing Pakistan into being in 1947 with our blood, they betrayed us. In 1971, we gained independence at the cost of the blood of millions of martyrs, with wars raging across villages. Even after that, we couldn't secure true freedom. Then came 1990, and finally 2024. We keep making mistakes and stumbling. If we fall this time, we won’t be able to rise again,” he said.

Mahfuj Alam further emphasised that the current youth generation will not have the chance to shape the future of this country when they grow old. He urged the youth to seize this moment, calling on them to lead the nation toward a brighter future. “The golden opportunity gained through revolution and sacrifice must be used to rebuild the state, society, and nation,” he said.

The adviser noted that the people have been disappointed again and again. He sought cooperation from all as the government is trying to rebuild Bangladesh as per the aspirations of the youth, on the basis of a consensus. 

Referring to a proverb that ‘no one learns from history,’ he said, “However, Sheikh Hasina has learnt from her father's legacy. While Sheikh Mujibur Rahman could not complete certain tasks, Hasina continued them. In 1972, repression was carried out in a particular way, and Hasina has followed that same path of oppression."

Mahfuj Alam accused Sheikh Mujib of introducing fascism in the country by using the ‘Rakhshi Bahini’ to torture people. Similarly, Sheikh Hasina transformed the police and the BGB into Rakshi Bahini and even corrupted the army. 

Bibi Ayesha faints during speech

During the event, Bibi Ayesha, mother of Shafiqul, who was martyred in the July-August uprising, broke down in tears while delivering her speech. She collapsed during her address and was later provided with first aid.

With a tearful voice, she said, “I worked hard to educate my son. He went into the movement to protect the safety of the mothers and sisters of the country. I demand justice from the government for my son’s killing. I want the people who ordered the shooting of students to be brought to justice.”

The event was presided over by Mahbuba Farzana, secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, with PIB Director General Faruque Wasif as the host.

In her speech, Mahbuba Farzana said, “The fascist government had oppressed us like a boulder on our shoulders. They destroyed every institution. Under the leadership of the youth, our nation has passed through these 15 years of darkness.”