Bangladesh Marks August 5 as Annual Public Holiday
The Bangladesh government has officially declared August 5 as a national public holiday starting in 2025. This day commemorates the first anniversary of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country amid political unrest and violent protests last year.
Official Announcement and Commemoration Plans
At a recent press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy, Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Bangladesh’s Cultural Affairs Adviser, confirmed the decision to add August 5 to the national holiday calendar. Farooki highlighted that this move honors the significant July uprising that ultimately led to the fall of Hasina’s government.
The announcement also revealed that preliminary events will begin on July 1, with major commemorative activities scheduled between July 14 and August 1. An official Gazette notification is expected to be issued following the upcoming Advisory Council meeting.
Legal Actions Surrounding Former Leaders
In parallel developments, the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has summoned Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan to appear in court on June 24. Both leaders face allegations of crimes against humanity linked to their actions during last year’s protests.
The tribunal accuses Hasina and Khan of employing security forces to unlawfully detain, torture, and kill activists during the uprising. After fleeing to India in August 2024, Hasina’s exit paved the way for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to assume the role of Interim Chief Adviser.
Despite multiple attempts by authorities, both Hasina and Khan remain at large. The ICT has ordered official notices summoning them, and the prosecution confirmed that former Police Inspector General Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, currently in custody, will face trial alongside them.
Context and Significance
- August 5 is now a national holiday to reflect on the political transformation following last year’s unrest.
- Sheikh Hasina’s departure marked a turning point in Bangladesh’s recent political landscape.
- The government’s decision signals an official recognition of the events that reshaped the nation.
With the holiday’s introduction and ongoing legal proceedings, Bangladesh continues to navigate a pivotal moment in its political history, acknowledging both the uprising’s impact and the quest for justice.
