BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday said the sacrifices made during the July 2024 mass uprising and the subsequent national election had yet to bring the institutional change people had hoped for, lamenting that corruption and bureaucratic practices remained largely unchanged.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to mark July Mass Uprising Day, Fakhrul said his experience in government had left him disappointed.

“I am seeing that nothing has changed,” he said.

The BNP leader, who also serves as the minister for local government, rural development and cooperatives, said officials who previously took bribes were still looking for opportunities to do so, while those who obstructed public services continued the same practices.

“People are simply changing their colours,” he said, adding that many who had now become vocal advocates of the July movement were the same individuals who had been part of the old system.

“I am saying these things out of regret. I truly wanted to see real change this time, but I am not seeing it,” Fakhrul said.

He stressed that meaningful reform required not only changes in government but also a transformation in the mindset of public officials and society, warning that otherwise the sacrifices of those killed during the July uprising would not achieve their intended purpose.

Despite his criticism, Fakhrul expressed confidence in Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, saying he remained hopeful because the premier was making genuine efforts to introduce change and set new precedents.

He urged political leaders and citizens to work together to build a democratic, non-communal, merit-based and youth-friendly Bangladesh, saying the ideals of the July uprising could only be honored through lasting institutional reform.

The event, held at the Information Bhaban auditorium, also featured the inauguration of a photo exhibition documenting the July 2024 uprising and the unveiling of a publication by the Department of Films and Publications. Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan, Bangladesh Press Council Chairman A K M Abdul Hakim and BFUJ Secretary General Kader Gani Chowdhury also addressed the program.

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