Dhaka: The 44th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman was observed across the country today with profound respect and a series of commemorative events.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its affiliated organizations organized an eight-day program to pay tribute to their party's founder, starting from May 25 and concluding on June 2. The day was marked by a variety of activities including discussion meetings, poster publications, wearing black badges, and placing wreaths at Ziaur Rahman's grave. The BNP also engaged in distributing food and clothes among underprivileged communities as part of their tribute.
President Ziaur Rahman, a renowned proclaimer of Bangladesh's independence and a pivotal figure in establishing multi-party democracy in the nation, was assassinated on May 30, 1981, by a faction of army officers at the Chittagong Circuit House. His legacy as a sector commander during the War of Liberation and leader of "Z Force" remains significant in the country's history.
The BNP held a significant discussion meeting at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium yesterday, where senior party leaders and distinguished guests highlighted Ziaur Rahman's contributions to Bangladesh's progress. The BNP also lowered its party flag to half-mast and hoisted black flags at its central office in Nayapaltan and other BNP offices nationwide, with leaders and activists wearing black badges in mourning.
In the morning, floral tributes were offered at Ziaur Rahman's grave in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. BNP's Dhaka north and south city units later distributed food and clothing in various locations, accompanied by senior leaders.
Ziaur Rahman's notable contributions include initiatives for building a self-reliant Bangladesh, empowering women, and developing children. His presidency marked the transition from a one-party rule to a multi-party democracy, introducing the 19-point programs encompassing economic, political, and social reforms aimed at national development.
The day witnessed thousands of BNP leaders and activists gathering despite rain to pay homage at Zia's mausoleum, led by BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas. The Bangladesh Sammilito Peshajibi Parishad and other professional groups also honored Ziaur Rahman with floral tributes and prayers.
In Dhaka, BNP organized multiple events across various locations, including food distribution and prayer sessions. Special doa-mahfils were held at the Gulshan residence and political office of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, with virtual participation from BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman in London. A Quran recitation and prayer mahfil were also organized by the University Teachers Association of Bangladesh.
Commemorative events spanned across the country including in Kushtia, Madaripur, Jamalpur, Satkhira, Sirajganj, Natore, Sylhet, and Faridpur. Each location hosted rallies, discussions, and special prayers, fostering a collective remembrance of Ziaur Rahman's enduring impact on the nation.
The observance concluded with prayers for the eternal peace of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and a renewed commitment to his democratic ideals.