Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today paid profound tributes to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, on the eve of his 89th birth anniversary. In a message, he acknowledged Ziaur Rahman as a statesman, proclaimer of independence, campaigner of multi-party democracy, commander of Z Force in the Liberation War, and proponent of Bangladeshi nationalist philosophy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhrul highlighted Zia's leadership during the nation's transitional periods. He credited Ziaur Rahman for building armed resistance during the military attack on March 25, 1971, and for declaring Bangladesh's independence from the Kalurghat Radio Station in Chattogram. Fakhrul emphasized the nation's recognition of Zia's leadership from that day onward.
Mirza Fakhrul remarked that Ziaur Rahman assumed leadership during a crisis marked by post-independence misery and autocratic misrule. He criticized the then ruling class for deceiving the people with false promises, undermining democracy, and causing a famine that earned Bangladesh the international title of a 'bottomless basket.' Fakhrul stated that Zia took state power on November 7 through a historic revolution of soldiers and people.
Fakhrul noted Ziaur Rahman's restoration of the independence of the judiciary and the press, and the re-establishment of multi-party democracy. He discussed Zia's initiatives to make the country self-reliant, including an agricultural revolution, mass education, and industrial production improvements. Fakhrul mentioned the significant efforts to modernize irrigation systems and increase literacy through mass education programs.
He also highlighted Ziaur Rahman's introduction of rural doctor systems, which improved access to medical treatment in rural areas, and the formation of a village defense force to maintain peace. Fakhrul described Zia as a nationalist leader who pursued an independent foreign policy and contributed to the formation of SAARC.
Fakhrul praised Ziaur Rahman for protecting the country's independence and sovereignty, enhancing its international dignity, and forming a unified front against anti-national conspirators. He described Zia as a symbol of patriotism, courage, honesty, and simplicity, emphasizing his significant contributions to the nation.
On Ziaur Rahman's birth anniversary, Fakhrul urged the nation to unite in protecting independence and sovereignty, restoring democracy, and reclaiming fundamental rights.