The Bangladesh High Commission in London celebrated the country’s 55th Victory Day with due solemnity and enthusiasm. The day began with the hoisting of the national flag at the High Commission premises, accompanied by the playing of the national anthem. A dua was then offered in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during Bangladesh’s War of Independence.

A special Victory Day programme was later held at a hotel auditorium in London, attended by around 300 invited guests. The guests included leaders of various political parties, students from different UK universities, and members of the British-Bangladeshi community.

The programme began with the national anthem of Bangladesh. In her speech, High Commissioner Abida Islam conveyed her warm greetings to Bangladeshis living in the UK on the occasion of Victory Day. She paid deep tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives during the War of Independence.

“On this day, we remember with profound respect the heroic martyrs of the Liberation War, whose supreme sacrifices enabled us to achieve an independent and sovereign Bangladesh, and whose contributions laid the foundation of our national identity. At the same time, we pay our heartfelt tribute to all those freedom fighters who, at home or abroad, directly or indirectly participated in Bangladesh’s War of Independence,” she said.

Highlighting contemporary developments, the High Commissioner stated, “The year 2024 marks a watershed chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Through a historic mass movement led by students, the core spirit of the Liberation War—democracy, justice, and self-determination—has been rekindled. At the same time, a new opportunity has emerged to establish a democratic state system free from discrimination, corruption, and authoritarianism. With deep respect, I remember the martyrs of the July Mass Uprising.”

She added, “Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom is an ongoing responsibility, and that safeguarding and strengthening it is a solemn duty of every generation.”

The programme was also addressed by several distinguished speakers, including Abu Bakar Mollah, All-Europe Spokesperson of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami; Maksudul Haque Shakur, Convener of the National Citizen Party, UK Branch; Khadija Akhtar; Wali Tashar Uddin, Honorary Consul of Bangladesh in Scotland; Khaled Millat, General Secretary of the Dhaka University Alumni Association, UK; Maulana Abdul Qadir Saleh of Khilafat Majlish; Maulana Ashfakur Rahman of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam; Dr. Alauddin, a British-Bangladeshi physician; and Nurul Gaffar, President of the Society of British Bangladeshi Solicitors.

The Victory Day celebration also featured a brief cultural programme. A collective patriotic song was performed by officers and staff of the Bangladesh High Commission, adding a vibrant and emotional touch to the occasion.