News Flash
DHAKA, June 23, 2025 (BSS) – Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain today said the previous autocratic government took away the voting rights of the youth, suppressed their voices and snatched away their future.
He made the remark while speaking at an event titled “Commonwealth Charter Youth Workshop” as the chief guest in a city hotel.
“We have a dark chapter in our history - where extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and election interference have scarred countless families. Many young generations have never had the taste of a free and fair election, and many have never even had the opportunity to vote. Their voices were suppressed, their future was snatched away,” said the adviser.
“But even then, it was the youth who were the beacons — who fought for a new era, protested for democracy and justice. It is because of their courage and sacrifice that today we are free from an authoritarian regime,” he added.
Asif Mahmud, also the adviser of the ministry of LGRD, continued, “Since our current government took office, we have felt that changing a regime is not enough—it is a matter of national aspiration. Therefore, we have undertaken extensive reform initiatives.”
He mentioned that several commissions have already been formed, which have submitted their reports after consulting with stakeholders at different levels—experts, political parties, civil society and others. Some proposals have already been identified for implementation, while work is underway on others, he added.
He went on, saying, “We want to build a Bangladesh where democracy will never be endangered, where the fundamental rights, freedoms and dignity of every person will be protected. But this cannot be done by the government alone—it requires the active participation of everyone, especially the young generation.”
Regarding Commonwealth, Asif Mahmud said, “The Commonwealth Charter is a fundamental document of our collective beliefs— which highlights our commitment to the rule of law, inclusive development and peaceful coexistence.”
He added, “It is a moral compass that guides our 56 member nations towards the same goal. This Charter is not just an ideological set of principles, but this must be implemented, protected and nurtured in everyday life.”
Speaking at the event as keynote speaker, Commonwealth Assistant Secretary-General Professor Louis Francesi said, “What you do today will shape you and determine who you will become in the next 30 years.”
He added, “The future of Bangladesh depends on your today’s choices, which will make you, your family and your country proud.”
He further said, “Bangladesh is changing, the world is changing, and you are the agents of that change. Let us work together on this journey—to make democracy stronger, governance more accountable and society more humane. Let's talk about this work and move forward.”
