We need a new social contract in which political conflict remains, even intense conflict.

July’s demand for meritocracy cannot be satisfied by replacing one patronage network with another. If the BNP treats its electoral mandate as a licence to reward loyalists, it risks recreating the same broken social contract that turned frustrated achievers into political challengers.

As we commemorate the second anniversary of the momentous July Mass Uprising against the dictatorial rule of Sheikh Hasina, who fled to Delhi in the face of the people’s march toward Gono Bhaban on August 5, 2024, we remember the ultimate sacrifices made by every martyr of the movement.