Acting President Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikrom criticized a documentary on the July mass uprising for omitting images of slain Abu Sayed and late BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Speaking as chief guest on Wednesday at a reception and discussion for July martyrs’ families and fighters at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, he said a documentary without their images could not be considered a proper documentary.

He said the film contained many mistakes and that the relevant minister had repeatedly apologized. However, he said continued disorder at a national event was undesirable, comparing the situation to a parliamentary walkout. He said lawmaker Akhtar had tried to calm supporters, while stressing that mistakes should be corrected collectively and national events should demonstrate unity.

Ahmed said the incident had harmed the country’s image before foreign guests, who left before he could deliver an intended English-language speech. He called ensuring respect, treatment and rehabilitation for injured July fighters a sacred government duty. He also emphasized democracy, elections, freedom of expression and national unity, urging a non-discriminatory, democratic, just and humane Bangladesh built on patriotism, honesty and mutual respect.