Flotilla: The courageous voyagers on the path of justice for Gaza

Three Bangladeshi flotilla activists have shared their experiences of sailing to stand beside the people of Gaza, protest against the blockade and send the message that Palestinians. 

On Sunday at a panel discussion titled “Flotilla: Bangladesh Sails for Gaza” held at DrikPath Bhaban in Dhaka, Mohammed Ali Liaquat, Jubair Islam Khan and photographer Shahidul Alam spoke about their journey, the experience of being detained, fear, faith and solidarity. 

At the same time, photographs of their humanitarian mission were also displayed at DrikPath Bhaban.

Mohammed Ali Liaquat and Jubair Islam Khan are British citizens, while Shahidul Alam, a renowned photographer and a rights activist in Bangladesh. 

The flotilla members made rigorous preparations keeping the possibility of detention in mind. For several weeks they prepared the ship, crew, medicines and security equipment and also practised how to face situations of arrest and torture.

While sharing his experience, Shahidul  Alam said that he boarded the ship carrying the flag of Bangladesh. “Life on the ship was difficult and regulated. Everyone had to share cooking, cleaning, security duties and limited sleeping space.”

He also took part in monitoring the sky and observing the ship’s security.

According to them, the biggest purpose of the flotilla was to let the Palestinians know that the people of the world have not forgotten them. 

Shahidul Alam also said that even though the mission was obstructed, its political and humanitarian message did not stop.