Bangladesh’s interim government cancels Holiday on death anniversary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
In a significant development, the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Prof. Mahmud Yunus, has officially canceled the public holiday on August 15, which was observed as National Mourning Day. The announcement was made through a notification issued by the Ministry of Public Administration on Tuesday night.
August 15 had been designated as National Mourning Day for the past 15 years under the previous Awami League (AL)-led government. However, following the fall of the AL government on August 5, there has been growing pressure from various sectors to revoke the holiday.
Earlier on Tuesday, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged the people of Bangladesh to commemorate August 15 as a National Day of Mourning in honor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, marking his death anniversary. In a statement shared by her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, on his verified Facebook page, she called for observance of the day with dignity and solemnity, recommending that people offer floral tributes at the portrait of the Father of the Nation at Bangabandhu Bhaban.
In response to the changing situation, Home Affairs Advisor of the interim government Brigadier General (Retd.) M. Sakhawat Hossain announced that heightened security measures would be implemented on August 15. The measures will include a substantial police presence, and coordination with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), with the potential involvement of the army if deemed necessary.
