Independence Day, Eid Reunion and Dol Purnima Celebrated at UK Parliament

Ansar Ahmed Ullah
Contributing Editor,Shottobani

London: A special event marking Bangladesh’s Independence Day alongside an Eid reunion and Dol Purnima was held at the UK Parliament, organised by Conservative Friends of Bangladesh.

The event took place on Monday, 23 March, in the Jubilee Room at the House of Commons. It brought together senior members of the Conservative Party, including MPs, Shadow Ministers, and British-Bangladeshi activists and volunteers.

The programme was conducted by Co-Chair Mehfuz Ahmed, while Chair Anjenarra Rahman-Huque delivered the welcome address. The keynote speech was given by Kevin Hollinrake, Chairman of the Conservative Party, who highlighted Bangladesh’s Independence Day and the significance of the festivals. He praised the contributions of the British-Bangladeshi community to UK society.

Eid greetings were extended to Muslim members of the party, with additional speeches from Wendy Morton, David Simmonds, Harriett Baldwin, Jack Rankin, and Bob Blackman, who hosted the event.

Speakers emphasised the longstanding historical relationship between Bangladesh and the United Kingdom, expressing support for a stable and prosperous Bangladesh. They also highlighted the significant achievements of British Bangladeshis across various sectors in the UK.

The Conservative Party reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong ties with Bangladesh and supporting its continued development. In his remarks, Kevin Hollinrake encouraged greater participation of British Bangladeshis in the party.

The event was attended by community leaders and party members, including Bajloor Rashid MBE, Cllr Salim Choudhury, Abdus Samad, Sujit Sen, Abdus Hamid, Shamsul Islam Shelim, Suhana Ahmed, Hussain Rahim, Sabikun Nahar, Cllr Naz Islam, Cllr Abdul Mubin, Dr Josh Ahmed, Rab Hashem, Jom Jom Rashid, Islam Uddin, Adam Gheasuddin and others.