The Retired Armed Forces Officers Welfare Association (RAOWA) on Saturday organised a discussion titled “Looking Back at July 2024” at the Helmet Hall of the RAOWA Club in Mohakhali.

The programme was chaired by RAOWA President Brig Gen Abdul Haque (Retd), while Prime Minister’s Adviser Brig Gen Dr AKM Shamsul Islam (Retd) attended as the chief guest. Retired military officers, journalists, family members of those killed in the July uprising and injured protesters were among those present.

Paying tribute to those killed in the July uprising, Brig Gen Dr AKM Shamsul Islam (Retd) said the government was working to build a “neutral, professional, depoliticised and people-oriented armed force” while ensuring accountability and national unity. He said monthly allowances had been introduced for the families of those killed and injured, overseas treatment arranged for critically injured victims and a database created to support their rehabilitation.

Referring to the July movement, he said it drew strength from the participation of students, citizens and members of the armed forces, as well as a series of discussions and seminars held at different venues.

Addressing the event, Brig Gen Abdul Haque (Retd) highlighted the historical role of the armed forces in Bangladesh’s independence and said the military’s decision during the August 5 crisis helped avert a possible civil war. He urged people not to judge the entire institution by the actions of a few individuals and called for national unity based on equality, human dignity and justice.

Speaking at the programme, Lt Gen Abdullahil Aman Azmi (Retd) said people from all political, religious and social backgrounds had united during the July uprising, adding that the spirit of unity should be preserved to face future national challenges.

Expressing concern over growing divisions in society, he announced plans to establish a National Reconciliation Council, describing it as a non-political initiative aimed at promoting dialogue, reconciliation and national unity in times of crisis.