Mahfuj Alam, an adviser in the interim government, has said the July uprising belongs to everyone, urging that everyone must move forward together.
A key figure during the uprising, Mahfuj made the statement in a Facebook post early on Wednesday.
"This uprising belongs to everyone. That is why I rejected the media-created hype about a so-called mastermind from the very beginning," he wrote under the title "In support of the people and an intermediate position."
Mahfuj said those who had made decisions had engaged with multiple stakeholders before finalizing any decision.
“Opinions from at least five to six groups had to be heard, analyzed and then a decision was made. Thus, our decisions were a product of collective strategic capability as well as the participation and consultation of various groups. No one was insignificant.
“Besides, the public did not wait for any particular decision between July 19 and 33. However, they always recognized legitimate leadership from public and private [universities], as well as from students of madrassas, schools and colleges.”
Mahfuj stressed the need to maintain a balanced position.
"We must move forward together but without the saboteurs," he said, warning against acts of sabotage, backstabbing and disregard for the “honour code,” as these posed threats to any arrangement.
He criticized those who dismissed the concept of a gentlemen’s agreement in politics and urged them to reconsider their stance.
The adviser acknowledged that some of his statements might have offended certain groups, particularly regarding the “Towhidi Janata,” apologizing to those who had been displeased by his remarks.
He also expressed willingness to reconsider any past statements that might have caused division or distress over the past few months.
Mahfuj emphasized the importance of a balanced, inclusive and non-divisive stance to maintain unity among the people, adding: “We do not wish to be either oppressors or victims.”
"Our enemies are numerous and powerful, while our allies are few. If we can expand our alliances by making some compromises and defeat our enemies, it will ultimately benefit the people of this country.
“The unity of all forces behind the mass uprising is our goal. We had – and still have – the opportunity to form a historic bloc. The anti-fascist and pro-Bangladesh groups must engage in positive political competition among themselves. Under no circumstances should fascist forces be allowed space in politics."
