Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon addressed a memorial discussion marking the Great July Mass Uprising of 2024. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 4, 2026 (BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today called for building enduring state and social institutions inspired by the spirit of the July Mass Uprising.

“Bangladesh must break free from its recurring cycle of political unrest and violent movements,” he said. 

Addressing a memorial discussion marking the Great July Mass Uprising 2024 at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), the minister said the sacrifices of the uprising's martyrs should lead to a broad national consensus that ensures no future generation falls below minimum democratic and institutional standards.

He said Bangladesh's history -- from the anti-British movement and the Liberation War to successive anti-autocracy struggles -- has been marked by repeated political transitions, yet the country has not succeeded in establishing stable institutions capable of fully nurturing merit, justice and democratic governance.

Swapon noted that despite holding 13 parliamentary elections, including what he described as the most credible one recently, the country still needs stronger parliamentary and judicial institutions backed by accountability and public trust.

He also stressed the need to reform structural weaknesses that have prevented the country from fully utilising its talented citizens and urged efforts to build a discrimination-free and humane Bangladesh for future generations.

Highlighting the role of educators, the minister said teachers must serve not only as academic instructors but also as mentors who promote ethical values and democratic ideals among young people.

The event, organised by the BUET Teachers' Association (BUETTA) at the university's Council Building, was chaired by its President Prof. Dr. Muhammad Anisuzzaman Talukder. BUET Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Shariful Islam attended as special guest.

Former Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Abdul Hasib Chowdhury, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Jalil and other faculty members also spoke.

Speakers paid tribute to the martyrs of the July Mass Uprising and reaffirmed their commitment to building an equitable and inclusive Bangladesh.