Abul Hayat shared his immense joy, saying, “I felt as though I was free for the second time. It’s a wonderful day for our country, and I was moved to tears with happiness, celebrating alongside everyone else.” He praised the students who were pivotal in the recent movement, saying, “Their courage and commitment are truly commendable. They have made remarkable contributions to our nation. We owe them a great deal of respect.”
Reflecting on the past, Hayat acknowledged the heavy price paid for the freedom now enjoyed. “The freedom we have in 2024 came at a significant cost. It is essential that we use this freedom wisely and avoid further violence. We must work to preserve our hard-won freedom and avoid repeating past mistakes,” he emphasized. “The young students have rekindled our hope for a brighter future.”
Hayat also highlighted the importance of safeguarding fundamental freedoms, including speech, writing, reading, and thought. “These freedoms are crucial for our progress as a nation. Today, I feel a great sense of relief and pride,” he stated.
He recalled the day of victory on December 16, 1971, with vivid memories. “I remember celebrating that day with immense joy, meeting freedom fighters, and taking garlands to the airport for the ministers. The triumph of that day was overwhelming. Despite the struggles, the victory was a profound source of pride.”
Today, Hayat finds a mix of pride and nostalgia, but he is comforted by the progress made and the continued joy of the victory.
