Why did the interim government cancel the Victory Day parade for two consecutive years?
From the first week of December, preparations for Victory Day celebrations begin in Bangladesh. Almost every year, as part of these celebrations marking the country’s Victory Day on December 16, a parade ceremony is held at the National Parade Ground.
Last year, following a mass uprising that led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina from power on August 5, an interim government was formed on August 8. Four months after assuming power, this government announced the suspension of the Victory Day parade ceremony on December 16 due to security concerns.
However, one year later, this year as well, the interim government has once again suspended the Victory Day parade ceremony.
On November 19, the country’s Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated at a press conference, “There is no concern about instability on Victory Day. As before, programs will be held this time as well. In fact, there will be more programs than before. However, there will be no parade program this time either.”
It was also announced that parade ceremonies will not be held not only in the capital but also at the district and upazila levels.
Meanwhile, political analysts point out that through Victory Day parades, an independent state showcases its military strength, and that this is a historical tradition.
Additionally, political analyst Mohiuddin Ahmed believes that if a parade were held, according to tradition the armed forces would have to salute Bangladesh’s current President, Md. Shahabuddin, which would be “embarrassing” for the interim government—something he considers to be one of the reasons behind the cancellation of the parade.
Attempts were made to contact Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury for comment on the matter, but his statement could not be obtained.
Source: BBC
