BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman on Thursday called upon the people of the country to work together to ensure democracy and protect the nation’s independence and sovereignty.

“On this great day (of the 1969 mass uprising), I urge the countrymen to unite in safeguarding freedom, sovereignty, democracy, and the fundamental and human rights of the people,” he said in a message issued to mark the anniversary of the 1969 mass uprising.

He observed that 24 January is an unforgettable day in the nation’s history, as it was on this day in 1969 that students and the people collectively built a strong resistance against the then Pakistani colonial rule, following a long period of movement and struggle.

Tarique Rahman said that the mass movement at the time gained momentum, culminating in a mass uprising that led to the fall of the military dictator.

“This paved the way for our independence,” he noted.

He further stated that the primary objectives of the mass uprising were to transition from dictatorship to democracy, enable multi-party political activities, promote pluralism and freedom of thought, and restore civil liberties for the people.

The BNP acting chairman also highlighted the immense significance of the 1969 mass uprising in the national life of the Bangladeshi people.

On the occasion of the historic Mass Uprising Day, he expressed his deepest respect for the memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in all democratic movements, including the mass movement of 1969. “I pray for the forgiveness of their souls,” he said.

Meanwhile, in a separate message issued on the same occasion, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir described the day of the mass uprising as a source of inspiration.

“This day sharpens our resolve to achieve democracy and freedom and motivates us to stand against all forms of injustice and oppression,” he added.