Questions have been raised over the absence of any reference to the role of Ziaur Rahman, whom Jamaat-e-Islami describes as a proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence, from the party’s exhibition titled ‘July Is Not Over Yet’, despite the inclusion of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic March 7 speech.Responding to journalists after visiting the exhibition at the official residence of the Leader of the Opposition in the capital on Saturday, Jamaat-e-Islami Amir Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the exhibition primarily presents the history of authoritarian and fascist rule and popular movements against such regimes.“Ziaur Rahman was not considered an authoritarian ruler, so his speech or role was not included in the exhibition,” he said.Shafiqur Rahman said historical contributions that brought benefit to the country should be acknowledged and respected.“We have tried to present history objectively and realistically in the exhibition,” he said.Asked specifically why Ziaur Rahman’s declaration of independence was not included, the Jamaat chief said, “We do not consider Ziaur Rahman a dictator or an authoritarian ruler. He was not an autocratic ruler.”He said the exhibition mainly highlights those who have been portrayed as authoritarian and aggressive, while contributions by people who played roles in the struggle for freedom and justice have also been presented in different sections.What the exhibition highlightsAccording to Shafiqur Rahman, the exhibition documents the background of the July uprising, various movements for people’s rights at different times, and the experiences of people who were killed, injured or otherwise affected during those movements.Describing several events of the July movement, he said participation by ordinary people increased after female students were attacked at Dhaka University on July 15.The movement intensified further following the death of Begum Rokeya University student Abu Sayed in Rangpur on July 16, he said.He added that clashes and deaths subsequently occurred in different parts of the country.Referring to the situation on August 3, Shafiqur Rahman claimed that some ordinary members of the armed forces refused to fire on civilians.He further alleged that large-scale killings took place on August 3 and 4, while internet services were shut down and bodies were concealed.‘July is not over yet’Shafiqur Rahman said the aspirations generated through the July movement have not yet been fulfilled.“The July uprising will truly end on the day the rights of the people are ensured,” he said.