Dhaka, Jan 01 (V7N) – As Bangladesh turns the page to 2026, the public reflects on the promises and challenges of 2025, the first full year after the July Uprising. While the year began with high hopes for change and progress, many feel that those expectations have only been partially fulfilled.

Throughout 2025, political clashes and law-and-order issues were prominent, leaving a lasting impact on the public consciousness. Incidents of people taking the law into their own hands overshadowed some of the positive developments. Meanwhile, business and commerce struggled to gain momentum, despite the absence of visible large-scale corruption, money laundering, or extortion.

The youth, the driving force behind the July Uprising, expressed disappointment at the gap between their aspirations and reality. Many believe that the dream of freedom of speech, security of life, and opportunity remains only partially realized. Still, they remain hopeful that the country will make significant strides in 2026.

Among the general public, there is cautious optimism. Citizens from both cities and villages express a desire for peaceful public life, affordable goods, and normalized politics. With national elections slated for the new year, people hope the democratic process will provide stability and pave the way for renewed momentum in both life and the economy.

“After many years, we are hoping for a fair election,” said one resident of Dhaka. “Our only wish is that public life returns to normal, prices remain manageable, and politics no longer disrupts daily life.”

As Bangladesh enters 2026, the overarching sentiment among the people is one of hope tempered by experience—expecting a year in which political stability, economic growth, and public security will align to build a better future.

END/SMA/AJ