Bangladesh has officially inaugurated the "July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum" at Ganabhaban, the former official residence of ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, marking two years since the political upheaval that led to her departure from the country. The museum commemorates the events of the 2024 July uprising and preserves documents, photographs, and memorabilia associated with the nationwide student-led movement.
Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, amid massive protests and political unrest, later taking temporary refuge in India. Shortly after her departure, angry crowds stormed Ganabhaban, causing extensive damage and looting property from the residence. The building has now been transformed into a memorial dedicated to the movement that reshaped Bangladesh's political landscape.
The museum was developed during the tenure of the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, although its formal inauguration took place only now. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman officially opened the museum and described it as a symbol of Bangladesh's democratic journey rather than a platform for any single political party or individual.
During the inauguration, Tarique also reiterated his government's commitment to ensuring transparent and impartial investigations into killings and enforced disappearance allegations linked to the previous administration. Referring to the 2024 protests, he emphasized that every victim deserves justice and accountability.
According to a United Nations report, more than 1,400 people lost their lives during the crackdown on the demonstrations, drawing widespread international concern. Tarique stated that the museum would preserve the memory of those events while highlighting the role of ordinary citizens in Bangladesh's democratic struggle and ensuring future generations understand the significance of the July uprising.
