Dhaka: BNP Standing Committee Member Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan today emphasized that BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Bir Uttam was a successful statesman and a pioneer of development politics and multi-party democracy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Moyeen Khan described Ziaur Rahman as a symbol of honesty and integrity, highlighting his role as the architect of Bangladesh’s development post-independence and a visionary for a self-reliant modern country. In an interview on the eve of Ziaur Rahman’s 44th martyrdom anniversary, Moyeen Khan praised him as a frontline fighter in the Liberation War, who assumed responsibility during critical periods in the nation’s history.
Moyeen Khan elaborated on Ziaur Rahman’s courage, determination, and wisdom in making quick, decisive actions during challenging times, overcoming obstacles and conspiracies to implement his vision. Ziaur Rahman’s patriotism and dedication to his duty earned him the people’s love and trust, who benefited from his directives, requests, and advice.
The BNP leader asserted that Ziaur Rahman did not act for personal or familial gain. Instead, he was a patriotic freedom fighter who established peace, created long-term prosperity platforms, and reestablished multi-party democracy in Bangladesh. Moyeen Khan highlighted Ziaur Rahman as a beacon of hope for building a dignified nation.
Moyeen Khan recalled the national loss felt with Ziaur Rahman’s assassination on May 30, 1981, under a conspiracy that halted Bangladesh’s progress. He reflected on Ziaur Rahman’s enduring legacy, emphasizing that the memory of Shaheed Zia cannot be erased from the people’s minds.
Highlighting Ziaur Rahman’s contributions, Moyeen Khan credited him with initiating export-oriented industries, foreign employment, agricultural development, and rural electrification, which laid the groundwork for national prosperity. Ziaur Rahman also played a key role in expanding employment opportunities for women and ensuring press freedom.
Moyeen Khan noted that Ziaur Rahman took steps to develop cottage industries, increase production, and transform the unemployed population into an active workforce. Under his leadership, the garment industry was established, paving the way for significant economic growth in Bangladesh.
Ziaur Rahman’s initiatives included exporting manpower to Middle Eastern countries, earning substantial foreign exchange, and reaching electricity to remote villages to promote industries. He founded Bapex, started exporting fisheries, and made strides toward food self-reliance.
Moyeen Khan emphasized Ziaur Rahman’s focus on the politics of production, advocating for farmers’ and workers’ development, and empowering youth and women. He was instrumental in forming the Ministry of Youth, Women and Children Affairs.
Moyeen Khan highlighted that during Ziaur Rahman’s rule, Bangladesh’s foreign policy shifted towards America and China, strengthening relations with the Muslim world and playing a leading role in forming SAARC. Bangladesh also served as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council during his tenure.
Reflecting on the 44 years since Ziaur Rahman’s passing, Moyeen Khan stressed the importance of educating the new generation about his philosophy. He shared personal memories of Ziaur Rahman, noting his humility and openness to advice, even from university teachers, on national policies.