Dhaka: The 90th birth anniversary of the architect of multi-party democracy and founder of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, will be celebrated tomorrow. Ziaur Rahman, also known for proclaiming Bangladesh’s independence and contributing significantly to the country’s development, was born on January 19, 1936, in Bagbari village under Nashipur Union in Gabtoli of Bogura district.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ziaur Rahman was the second of five sons of Chemist Mansur Rahman and Jahanara Khatun, with the nickname Kamol. On November 7, 1975, he rose to prominence in state power. As the founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on September 1, 1978, Ziaur Rahman played a vital role in shaping the nation’s political landscape until his assassination by a faction of army personnel on May 30, 1981.
To commemorate the birth anniversary of its founder, BNP has organized a two-day program that begins tomorrow. The celebration will start with the hoisting of party flags at the central office and all BNP offices nationwide at dawn. Party leaders, activists, and members of the BNP National Standing Committee will lay wreaths and offer ‘Fatiha’ at the mausoleum of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar at 11:00 am.
The Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB) will hold a medical camp to mark the occasion. Additionally, a discussion will be held at the Institution of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh (IDEB) auditorium in Kakrail at 11:00 am on January 20. Senior BNP leaders and prominent national figures are expected to attend this event. Concurrently, BNP and its associated bodies will organize discussion meetings and ‘dua mahfils’ across various levels nationwide.
In honor of Ziaur Rahman’s contributions, posters and special supplements will be published in national dailies. As commander of the ‘Z Force’ and Sector-1 during the Liberation War, Ziaur Rahman is remembered for his significant contributions and leadership, which earned him the title of Bir Uttam for his valor.
Ziaur Rahman’s early years were spent in Kolkata, where his father worked as a scientific officer. He attended the esteemed Hare School before moving to Karachi after the Partition in 1947. There, he continued his education at DJ Sindh Government Science College and joined the Pakistan Military Academy as an officer cadet in 1953, receiving commando training by 1955.
Throughout his military career, Ziaur Rahman took on various roles, including serving as second-in-command of the East Bengal Regiment in 1967 and receiving advanced military training in West Germany. By 1970, he was stationed in Chittagong, where he played a crucial role during the Liberation War. His declaration of independence on March 25, 1971, inspired many during the nation’s darkest times.
Despite political upheavals, Ziaur Rahman remained committed to his duties and was eventually entrusted with leading the state on November 7, 1975. As President, he reintroduced multiparty democracy and restored press freedom, contributing to the country’s political stability and development. He assumed the presidency on April 21, 1977, and was elected on June 23, 1978, defeating the Awami League-backed candidate.
Ziaur Rahman’s leadership revitalized political parties and introduced a 19-point program that emphasized development and governance. His efforts to restore law and order and curb corruption established a sense of security and confidence among the public. His legacy as a statesman and leader continues to be honored by many.