Thousands of people assemble at Manik Mia Avenue for debut of new political party

Bangldesh desk: A wave of enthusiasm swept through Manik Mia Avenue as a new political party made its grand debut, drawing a significant crowd of young activists and supporters.

In front of the stage, various political leaders, high commissioners appointed to Bangladesh from different countries, family members of the July martyrs, injured activists, and a gathering of at least 5,000 people from across the country took their seats.

As the final moments of preparation unfolded, the organizers and a large number of participants offered Jummah prayers right in front of the stage, marking a solemn yet powerful moment before the grand political gathering at Manik Mia Avenue.

Notable guests include: Zonayed Saki, Chief Coordinator, Ganosamhati Andolon; Professor Mia Golam Parwar, Secretary General, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami; Syed Ahmed Maruf, Current High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh; Habibullah Miyazi, Secretary General, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon.

Large processions from Barishal, Gazipur, Sylhet, Thakurgaon, Khulna, Lalmonirhat, Patuakhali, Narayananj and other districts joined the gathering, transforming the capital into a sea of flags, banners, and slogans demanding political change.

Hundreds of participants gathered near the grand stage, which bore the slogan “Notun Rajnoitik Doler Attoprokash” (Announcement of a New Political Party). Youthful energy dominated the scene as supporters sat on the stage, symbolizing inclusivity and grassroots involvement. The backdrop, featuring a modern aesthetic with bold green and red elements, underscored the party’s patriotic and reformist aspirations.

The rally extended beyond the stage, as a separate procession marched through the streets, waving Bangladesh flags and chanting slogans of change.

Martyrs of the Movement: Their Stories

Sabbir, a 14-year-old tea vendor, was the eldest of four brothers. His father, Harun, and mother, Maksuda Begum, lived in Singalmuri village, Shariatpur district. On July 20, his lifeless body was recovered from Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital in Barishal. His younger brother, Mahbul (12), was brutally shot in the back, leaving his body riddled with bullets.

Abdur Rakib, a 22-year-old student, was shot dead by police during the protests. His name now stands as a symbol of the student movement’s sacrifice.

Rokon, a young street vendor, sold chocolates, pens, and antacids to a small shop owners. On July 19, he was shot and killed on Mohammadpur’s Mayur Villa Road in a joint attack by the police and members of Chhatra League and Jubo League. He was the eldest of three siblings, with two sisters and a younger brother. His father, Md. Monir Hossain, received financial aid following Rokon’s death—Tk 5 lakh from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Tk 1 lakh from Jamaat-e-Islami, and another Tk 1 lakh from the As-Sunnah Foundation.

Mobarak Hossain, a fourth-grade student of Mohammadia Hafezi Madrasa in Banglamotor, lost his life on Green Road. A bullet struck his head, ending his life in an instant. His parents, Ramzan Ali and Farida Begum, saw his tragic fate on the news, while student protesters rushed him to Green Life Hospital. The youngest of three brothers and two sisters, Mobarak’s family received Tk 5 lakh in support but continue to demand justice.

Dressed in traditional and modern attire, the demonstrators carried Palestinian flags as well, signaling solidarity with global struggles. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with musical performances, trumpets, and cultural elements, transformed the event into a festival of political hope.

Passages from the Quran, the Gita, the Tripitaka, and the Bible were recited, followed by the singing of the national anthem. A one-minute mourning session was observed in memory of the martyrs of July. Everyone offered prayers for the July martyrs according to their respective faiths. A documentary on the July Revolution was screened on the stage’s large monitor.

Observers noted that the massive turnout and the youthful demographic of the attendees indicate a rising appetite for political alternatives. While the party’s official manifesto is yet to be fully revealed, its debut has already sparked discussions about the potential impact on Bangladesh’s political scene.

With Manik Mia Avenue witnessing this historic launch, the new party’s journey has begun with a powerful statement. Whether this momentum translates into long-term political influence remains to be seen, but for now, the excitement is undeniable.