Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday said the government is committed to realizing the goals and aspirations of the Freedom Fighters (FFs), victims of enforced disappearances, killings and repressions during various democratic movements, as well as the martyrs and victims of the July uprising.
"Sometimes everything cannot be achieved quickly due to various realities, but we will continue our utmost efforts," he said after handing over job appointment letters to 10 members of families affected by enforced disappearances and killings and families of July martyrs at a ceremony at his office in Tejgaon on Saturday afternoon.
A total of 74 people, including members of families affected by enforced disappearances and killings, families of July uprising martyrs and those injured in the July uprising, received appointment letters, with the prime minister personally handing over letters to 10 recipients.
After handing over the appointment letters, the prime minister said, "Today's program is extremely painful for us. We are remembering people who should have been among us today, but sadly they are not. It is through their great sacrifice that the 20-crore people of the country have today been freed from a fascist ruler."
"Only Almighty Allah knows where and in what condition those who are absent among us today are. We should raise our hands and pray to Allah to keep those people in the best possible condition wherever they are," he said.
The prime minister added, "Despite our limited resources, we will make our utmost efforts to stand by the families affected by enforced disappearances and killings and the families of those injured or killed in the July uprising."
"The irreparable losses you have suffered can never be compensated. Yet, we were with you, are with you and will remain with you in the future," he said.
Noting that many of those who made great sacrifices for major national achievements are no longer alive, the prime minister said "To those who are with us, I would say that you made the highest sacrifices for the country and suffered physical harm in various ways. The present government will make every possible effort to fulfil the aspirations for which you risked your lives."
Describing the sacrifices of the democratic fighters as the government's main source of strength and inspiration, Tarique Rahman said, "It is your sacrifices, support and cooperation that give us the courage to work with full vigor. You are our main source of strength and inspiration."
Addressing the families of martyrs, the prime minister sought their continued support and encouragement so that the government could work to fulfil the aspirations of the martyrs and all other democratic fighters for the country and its people.
Family members affected by enforced disappearances and killings and injured persons shared their feelings with prime minister Tarique Rahman at the program, conducted by Atikur Rahman Ruman, also convener of “Amra BNP Paribar”.
Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Gani, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister ABM Abdus Sattar, Press Secretary AAM Saleh Shibly among others, were present on the occasion.
