President Sahabuddin Approves July Ordinance; Yunus to Address Nation Today

President Mohammed Sahabuddin has approved the July Ordinance today, Thursday, marking a new milestone in the post-July mass uprising political process. The ordinance, promulgated under Article 93(1) of the Constitution, recognizes the uprising that toppled the Awami League regime and honors its martyrs and injured. It will now await gazette notification to take effect.

The ordinance emphasizes the interim government's commitment to preserving the history of the uprising, which began as quota protests on June 5, 2024, and escalated into a nationwide revolt by August 5, forcing Sheikh Hasina's resignation. It condemns discriminatory policies, repression, and genocide-like actions during the 36-day crackdown that killed over 1,000 (initially 834 confirmed by gazette in January 2025) and injured 20,000+. The document details brutal suppression, including mass killings and enforced disappearances, and pledges welfare for victims' families.

Drafted earlier with input from BNP and NCP, it received final Advisory Council approval on October 23, 2025. The ordinance categorizes July 16 as a Category A holiday ("July Mass Uprising Day") and calls for a July Uprising Memorial Museum at Ganabhaban.

In a related development, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will address the nation this afternoon at 2:30 PM. Bangladesh Television (BTV), BTV News, and BTV World will broadcast live. The speech is expected to cover recent political tensions, the July uprising's spirit, and outlines for national reconstruction ahead of February 2026 elections.

Yunus, speaking to a Canadian delegation yesterday, said Bangladesh is "undergoing major transformation ahead of this historic election." He highlighted youth-led reforms and global focus on issues like Rohingya repatriation.

The address comes amid heightened security for November 13 protests by banned Awami League against Hasina's trial, with BGB deploying 14 platoons in Dhaka.