The Bangladesh Awami League, one of the oldest and largest political parties in the country, commemorates its 75th founding anniversary today.

This milestone comes as the party enjoys an unprecedented period of governance, having led the nation consecutively since 2009, albeit through three controversial elections, under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Reflecting on the party’s long journey, senior Awami League leaders acknowledge the initial hardships and the ongoing challenges they face despite their current dominance.

Inflation, the rising prices of essential goods, and unemployment remain the primary economic hurdles confronting the government.

"The main aim of our party now is to complete the unfinished works we promised in our election manifesto. Controlling inflation and the rising prices of essentials is our main challenge," said Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader.

He emphasized the party's commitment to serving the people and addressing their immediate concerns.

The Awami League also contends with political obstacles, notably the resurgence of fundamentalist forces within the country. These groups, often associated with the inclusion of "outsiders" and "hybrid" leaders and activists, pose a significant threat to the party's secular and progressive stance.

Mahbubul Alam Hanif, the party's Joint General Secretary, highlighted the importance of the 75th anniversary message: "Our goal is to implement our election manifesto and build a non-communal country by defeating communal forces and militancy."

A Historical Journey

The Awami League was established on June 23, 1949, by supporters of Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy at the Rose Garden of KM Das Lane. Initially named the Awami Muslim League, the party dropped the word "Muslim" in 1955, marking its shift towards secularism.

Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani and Shamsul Haq were the first president and general secretary, respectively, with Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman serving as joint secretary while imprisoned.

In March 1966, Sheikh Mujib assumed leadership of the Awami League, shortly after announcing the historic Six-Point Programme in Lahore. His leadership was pivotal in the struggle for Bangladesh's independence, earning him the title of Father of the Nation.

The assassination of Sheikh Mujib and most of his family on August 15, 1975, followed by the killing of four national leaders inside Dhaka Central Jail in November of the same year, left the Awami League without a unifying leader and splintered into factions.

Zohra Tajuddin played a crucial role in keeping the party together during these turbulent times.

Sheikh Hasina, Mujib’s daughter, returned from exile in May 1981 and took the helm of the Awami League, embarking on the arduous task of reorganizing the party.

Over the past three decades, her leadership has seen the Awami League form the government four times and lead numerous democratic movements.

What lies ahead?

As the party celebrates its 75th anniversary, the Awami League remains focused on addressing the economic and political challenges that lie ahead.

With a steadfast commitment to its foundational principles and the leadership of Sheikh Hasina, the party looks to navigate these hurdles and continue its legacy of governance and progress in Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, the party has taken elaborate programs, marking its founding anniversary.

Earlier, the party's General Secretary Obaidul Quader announced a three-day programme to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary.

All registered parties will be invited to the founding anniversary program.

Prime Minister and party President Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the platinum anniversary program in front of Bangabandhu Bhaban today.

On the same day, a discussion meeting will be held at Suhrawardy Udyan at 3 pm followed by a cultural event.

Besides, a cultural programme will be held at Rabindra Sarobar and boat race and cycle rally will be arranged at Hatirjheel in the capital.

The founding anniversary of the country's oldest political party will be celebrated at each union and ward as well.