• Thousands gather in Dhaka to commemorate the anniversary of Sheikh Hasina's ouster.
• Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus unveils the "July Declaration" outlining democratic reforms.
• The interim government promises elections in February 2026 amidst calls for a united front against tyranny.
• Mixed emotions surface as citizens question the future of democracy in Bangladesh.
• Police maintain high alert to prevent disruptions from Hasina's banned Awami League party.

Thousands of exultant Bangladeshis gathered in Dhaka to mark the first anniversary of mass protests that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The celebrations included rallies, concerts, and prayer sessions, culminating in the reading of the "July Declaration," which advocates for democratic reforms and constitutional recognition for the 2024 student-led uprising, according to Reuters and TRT Global.

Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus, who leads the interim government formed post-Hasina, expressed a commitment to building a Bangladesh where "tyranny will never rise again," and stated that a peaceful, fair, and transparent election could be held in early 2026. He emphasized the need for unity to protect the uprising's gains while reform discussions with political parties continue, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

The "July Declaration" comprises a roadmap that seeks constitutional reforms, although critics warn its impact might be largely symbolic without parliamentary consensus. Political parties such as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, have called for elections to avoid a political vacuum and suggested that the Awami League should be allowed to participate despite its leadership facing prosecution, according to Dawn and Dawn.

As celebrations unfolded, emotions were mixed, with some attendees recalling the protests' violence, stating their dreams for a liberal democracy feel distant. While supporters welcomed the changes, others cautioned about the path ahead. Police maintained heightened security measures throughout Dhaka to prevent any untoward incidents from Hasina's sanctioned party, underscoring the ongoing tensions within the political landscape of Bangladesh, according to Reuters and Dawn.