Written by Date: November 03, 2024 –
“One Saddam Hussein died and many Saddam were created in Iraq. In Bangladesh, one thief left and many thieves were created.” These powerful words from Mohammed Foysal Ahmed, a private university student, capture both the triumph and irony of Bangladesh’s historic July Movement.
Early Days: Whispers of Unrest
As a private university student, Foysal initially watched the unrest unfold through the stories of his friends in public universities. His involvement with the Quota Movement, which addressed inequities in government job recruitment, had already sensitized him to the growing discontent among Bangladesh’s youth.
The Turning Point: July 15th
Everything changed on July 15th. When Bangladesh Chhatra League attacked peaceful student protesters, the movement took a dark turn. “I rushed to Dhaka Medical College to see my injured friends,” Foysal recalls, his voice heavy with emotion. “Seeing them lying there, victims of senseless violence, something changed inside me.”
Witnessing History and Horror
The days of July 18th and 19th remain etched in Foysal’s memory. He watched as police and political groups unleashed what he describes as “inhuman acts” against protesters. Though he escaped physical injury, the emotional scars run deep. “It was really painful to see,” he says, his words carrying the weight of those difficult days.
The March of Hope
August 5th marked a turning point. Foysal joined thousands in a long march from Uttara to Ganabhaban. His description paints a powerful picture of unity: ordinary citizens handing out water bottles and dry food to marching students, a nation coming together in pursuit of change.
Triumph and Irony
The resignation and departure of Sheikh Hasina brought initial celebration. However, Foysal’s joy was tempered by what followed. He witnessed people looting Ganabhaban and the Parliament House – a sobering reminder that the path to true change is complex and often contradictory.
Looking Forward
Despite the disappointment of seeing opportunistic looting tarnish the movement’s victory, Foysal remains hopeful. His call for students to enter politics comes from a deep understanding that change requires more than protest – it needs new voices and fresh perspectives in the political arena.
A Generation’s Voice
Foysal’s story is more than a personal account; it’s a window into a generation’s struggle for better governance. His experience highlights both the power of unified action and the challenges of maintaining moral high ground in moments of dramatic change.
The Path Ahead
As Bangladesh moves forward, stories like Foysal’s serve as crucial reminders of both what was achieved and what remains to be done. His observation about “dirty politics” and the need for student involvement points to a future where young leaders might help reshape the country’s political landscape.
“The movement showed us what we can achieve together,” Foysal reflects, “but it also showed us how much work lies ahead. We need to be the change we fought for.”
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