The draft declaration for the July Uprising emphasizes the establishment of good governance, free and fair elections, and the prevention of the recurrence of authoritarian systems through necessary reforms. This intent was outlined during a meeting on Thursday (January 16) led by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus with representatives from various political parties, including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, anti-discrimination student movements, and the National Citizens’ Committee.

The draft highlights the long history of struggles for freedom in the region, beginning with the anti-colonial movement that culminated in the creation of Pakistan in 1947, and later, the bloody Liberation War of 1971 that established Bangladesh. It also details the socio-political context that fueled widespread protests, ultimately transforming into a mass uprising that led to the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her subsequent flight to India.

The draft states, “We, the students and the people, hereby resolve to organize ourselves as a sovereign entity to uphold the ideals of dignity, equality, and social justice, which were the foundational principles of the Liberation War. We call for the dissolution of the parliament formed through a farcical election and urge the formation of an interim government under the leadership of Dr. Muhammad Yunus to ensure national security, stability, and integrity. This government will undertake necessary reforms to establish good governance and conduct credible elections to prevent a return to authoritarianism.”

The document further proposes a review and, if necessary, an annulment of the 1972 Constitution, which it claims nurtured authoritarianism. It pledges justice for crimes committed during the uprising, including alleged mass killings and looting under the former Awami League-led government. The draft also expresses the intent to establish a new democratic republic that eliminates oppression, exploitation, and inequality, resonating with the aspirations of the country’s youth.

The declaration emphasizes the necessity of constitutional and state recognition for its proposals to pave the way for a more inclusive and just society.

The political discourse surrounding the July Uprising began when the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens’ Committee announced plans to unveil the declaration at Dhaka’s Central Shaheed Minar on December 31. The announcement sparked debates in the political arena. In response, the Chief Advisor’s press secretary announced on December 30 that the interim government would draft a declaration based on national consensus.

Following this announcement, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens’ Committee organized a "March for Unity" rally on December 31, setting a January 15 deadline for the interim government to finalize the declaration.

With the deadline expiring, Thursday’s meeting marked a significant step in uniting various stakeholders to finalize the declaration.