On May 8, 2026, the Algerian Embassy in Bangladesh commemorated Algerian National Martyrs’ Day in Dhaka with a solemn ceremony honoring the victims of the May 8, 1945 massacres in Sétif, Guelma, and Kherrata. The event brought together prominent figures from various sectors, including veterans, religious and business leaders, journalists, and members of the Algerian community, as well as numerous distinguished guests and youth representatives who actively participated in the program. Following the raising of the national flag, the martyrs were honored with a minute of silence, the recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha, and a special prayer in their memory.
In his address to the attendees, Ambassador Abdelwahab Saïdani highlighted the historical significance of the May 8, 1945 massacres and their profound impact on Algerian national consciousness. He emphasized that peaceful demonstrations demanding justice, dignity, and freedom were met with brutal repression, despite the sacrifices made by Algerians during World War II. He also drew parallels between Algeria’s struggle for independence and Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation war, noting the shared spirit of resistance against injustice and the pursuit of self-determination. The ceremony concluded with the screening of a documentary about the historical events, followed by a sumptuous lunch featuring traditional Algerian dishes.