Bangladesh interim government cancels 8 national holidays, sparks controversy
The interim government in Bangladesh has cancelled 8 national holidays.
This was announced by the Chief Adviser of the interim government, Dr Muhammad Yunus on October 16.
The days cancelled include March 7 which is considered iconic because of past events associated with the liberation war and the independence of Bangladesh. August 15 which is also considered National Mourning Day, a day observed in memory of India’s first president, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (Bangabandhu) has also been cancelled.
Both days were introduced by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her term in office.
Other holidays include March 17: Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's Birthday and National Children's Day
August 5: Sheikh Kamal's Birthday, the eldest son of the Father of the Nation
August 8: Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib's Birthday, the wife of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
October 18: Sheikh Russel's Birthday, the youngest son of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
November 8: National Revolution and Solidarity Day
and December 12: Digital Bangladesh Day.
The announcement was made on his official Facebook page and subsequently circulated by cabinet.
Before this, Muhammad Yunus had indicated plans to introduce reforms under the current administration which took over on August 8 2024 after former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was forced into exile by deadly student and anti-government protests in the country.
Since his swearing-in by Mohammed Shahabuddin, Yunus has promised to reset the button on corrupt politics which destroyed institutions and the economy of the country.
The decision to cancel the holidays has since sparked controversy with some quarters describing it as an attack on the spirit of the 1971 War of Independence on March 7 during which the great speech of Bangabandhu was given.
