By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – The Bangladesh Welfare Association Lesotho (BWAL) recently marked a momentous occasion with the celebration of the 54th Victory Day of Bangladesh, a day of immense national pride and historical significance. Held annually on December 16, this Victory Day commemorates the triumph of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, an important moment in the nation’s history that led to its independence from Pakistan.
In his opening remarks, General Secretary of BWAL, Engr. Md Abdullah Al Hussain, expressed the deep significance of Victory Day for the people of Bangladesh, emphasizing that it serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle and sacrifice that led to the country’s hard-won independence.
“Victory Day represents not only the end of a brutal conflict but the beginning of a new era for Bangladesh,” he stated. He also noted the pride of the Bangladesh people in their continued progress since that historic victory.
Abdullah further highlighted the strong bond between Bangladesh and Lesotho, as this day was also a celebration of the relationship between the two nations. The event featured the raising of both the Bangladesh and Lesotho national flags, symbolising the unity and peace that exists between the two countries.
The flags, side by side, stood as a powerful representation of the enduring friendship and shared commitment to fostering mutual respect and cooperation.
The 54th Victory Day, Abdullah explained, is a testament to the resilience, determination, and sacrifice of the Bangladeshi people, who fought against overwhelming odds to secure their independence. For the citizens of Bangladesh, it is a day of immense pride and unity. The celebrations were a moment to reflect on the struggles of the past, the triumph of independence, and the remarkable progress the nation has made in the decades since.
He also spoke of the hope that this day would strengthen the ties between Bangladesh and Lesotho, and inspire greater collaboration between the two countries moving forward.
Honorable Minister of Labour and Employment, Tšeliso Mokhosi, delivered a speech in which he acknowledged the hard-fought nature of Bangladesh’s liberation struggle. “While we celebrate with joy, we must also remember the challenges and sacrifices that Bangladesh endured during its liberation,” he said.
Mokhosi noted that the journey to independence was fraught with challenges, but the spirit of the Bangladeshi people prevailed, ultimately achieving freedom.
Mokhosi also highlighted one of Bangladesh’s most notable achievements in recent years, the successful implementation of microfinance programs. He praised Bangladesh for its innovative use of microcredit, which has helped lift millions out of poverty by providing access to small loans for individuals to start businesses. “Microfinancing has empowered the poor, particularly women, to become financially independent and contribute to the nation’s economy,” he remarked.
This initiative, he said, is a model for other developing countries, demonstrating the transformative power of financial inclusion. Mokhosi pointed to the thriving small businesses in Bangladesh, many of which have emerged as a direct result of access to microfinance, as proof of the program’s success.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Mirazur Rahman, President of BWAL, expressed his gratitude to all attendees, particularly Minister Mokhosi, for their participation in the celebration. “It is an honor to have the Minister of Labour present today as we commemorate this significant day,” he stated.
Dr. Rahman reflected on the core mission of BWAL, which not only seeks to support the people of Bangladesh but also aims to contribute to global development. He emphasised that Bangladesh’s development is not only for the benefit of its citizens but also for the betterment of the global community.
As Bangladesh continues to rise on the world stage, Dr. Rahman noted, the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War remains a cornerstone of the nation’s identity. Victory Day is more than just a commemoration of past struggles, it is a celebration of the enduring spirit of a nation that continues to grow, inspire, and contribute to global peace and progress.
The event concluded with a sense of hope and determination for the future, as the people of Bangladesh and their friends in Lesotho reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship, unity, and peace between their nations. The 54th Victory Day was not only a reflection on the past but also a reminder of the shared vision of a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
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