Govt won’t unilaterally issue ‘Proclamation of the July Revolution’: Mahfuj

The interim government has reaffirmed that the Proclamation of July Revolution will not be issued unilaterally by the government. 

Instead, it will be formulated based on proposals from students and a consensus among all political parties, as well as cultural and social organisations.

Mahfuj Alam, adviser without portfolio, clarified this position during a briefing held at the Foreign Service Academy auditorium in the capital on Thursday (January 9).

 “There has been significant confusion regarding the proclamation,” Mahfuj said. “Students have already submitted proposals, but the government’s role is not to issue the proclamation. Instead, we are facilitating the process for a consensus among all stakeholders.”

He emphasised, “The proclamation will emerge through agreement among students, political parties, cultural, and social organizations. It is not a unilateral government initiative.”

Mahfuj confirmed that the process for finalising the proclamation will begin and conclude next week. He stressed that the government remains committed to a collaborative approach, stating,

“The declaration will be shaped by the collective input of all parties and organizations involved in the movement, ensuring it represents the shared goals and unity of the people.”

On December 31, leaders of the anti-discrimination student movement announced their intention to read the Proclamation of July Revolution at the Central Shaheed Minar. Following this announcement, Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, said that the students’ action was a “private initiative” and not related to the government.

However, just a day later, the press secretary added that the government would oversee the proclamation’s preparation. This would be done in consultation with students, political groups, and others involved in the July mass uprising, reflecting the basis of unity and public intent behind the movement.

This shifting stance from the government prompted backlash from some student leaders, who organised a March for Unity at Shaheed Minar on December 31. During the rally, they gave the interim government a 15-day ultimatum to announce the July Proclamation.

As the deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the government’s ability to navigate this sensitive issue and ensure the proclamation reflects the aspirations of all stakeholders involved.