BNP Acting Chairperson Tarique Rahman declared that the unity formed with the blood of martyrs has defeated fascism. He stated that Bangladesh would never again be turned into a client state, and no opportunity would be given to destroy democracy. “1971 was the war for independence; 2024 was the war to protect that independence,” he said. He accused the government of repression, enforced disappearances, corruption, and institutional decay. Calling August 5 a historic day, he claimed it marked the beginning of the fall of fascism through public resistance. Tarique urged all parties to reject extremism and fascism and called for building a humane, justice-based state where every citizen, regardless of belief or background, can live safely. He also called for restraint and avoidance of mob violence.