DHAKA, May 09 (V7N) – Information and Broadcasting Ministry Adviser Md. Mahfuj Alam, a key figure in the July mass uprising, asserted today that the current generation holds the responsibility of safeguarding the country's sovereignty and democracy.

In a Facebook post titled "Koeyekti Kotha (a few words)," Mahfuj addressed ongoing political tensions and allegations surrounding the legal processes concerning the Awami League.

He refuted claims that students opposed the legal process of banning the Awami League, stating, "False. It was my first meeting in the cabinet. I clearly raised questions about many sections of this law. Nahid, Asif were also naturally on my side. When the argument was raised in favour of the trial as a party, one of the advisers' response was whether we can take into account examples like the Nuremberg Trials."

Mahfuj criticized certain party activists for attempting to mislead students by promoting the individual who made this argument. "However, we have no dispute with him. There is no point in making attempts to create a dispute. It is worth mentioning that two advisers with legal backgrounds (one has already died) also supported our statement. The cultural adviser was also in favour," he added.

He also mentioned that an adviser had assured him that the provision for trying the Awami League as a party would be added soon, and he expressed gratitude for this assurance.

Mahfuj further addressed allegations of delays and deception, stating, "Stop lying. We will tell you about your two-month dillydally in making the declaration. On the eve of the announcement of the students' party, you started discussing on a manifesto of the party. No problem, we also want everyone to be recognized. We are to be blamed too as we trusted in the assurance of your party chief."

Regarding the upcoming general election, he clarified that they do not intend to delay the process, stating, "The elections will be held between December and June."

He cautioned against underestimating the students' ability to formulate their own ideals and plans, warning against attempts to delegitimize them. "Since that August, we have done what we thought good for the nation, with everyone's advice. Rather, we have trusted that party more. We consulted with them first. In exchange for trust we have received a horse's tail. Now all the blame is on student adviser, the scapegoat!"

Mahfuj expressed a desire to maintain trust in that party and its leader, hoping they will "play a patriotic and pragmatic role on the issue of banning the League and publishing the declaration, by paying the price of our trust."

He concluded by urging political consensus and leadership from that party, stating, "If we lead as a force that is patriotic and pro-sovereignty, the students will follow them in the political process. Be united and give lead. Do not disappoint this generation. This generation is the protector of the sovereignty and democracy of this country."

END/MSS/RH/