Cumilla: Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid on Tuesday emphasized that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman stands as the only President who declared Bangladesh’s independence while actively participating in the Liberation War with arms. He highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s sense of duty towards the people, honesty, and straightforward lifestyle as exemplary traits for political workers.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister called on leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to focus on the country’s welfare, drawing inspiration from Ziaur Rahman’s ideals. He was the chief guest at a discussion organized by Cumilla city BNP at the Cumilla Shilpakala Academy, marking the BNP’s founding anniversary, as noted in a PID handout.
Aminur Rashid remarked that in a democratic state, the people are the ultimate source of power, stating that BNP formed the government through direct public votes. He pointed out that no government in history has maintained power indefinitely, emphasizing that the people are the fundamental strength of democracy and the true source of state power.
The minister noted that nearly 75 percent of the country’s population is engaged in agriculture and farming, either directly or indirectly. He asserted that the government believes sustainable development is unattainable without advancing farmers’ interests and is committed to taking necessary actions to enhance agriculture and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
Aminur Rashid added that agricultural development was a key component of the BNP’s election promises. The government is implementing initiatives for farmers’ welfare, such as loan waivers and necessary support for agricultural activities. He mentioned that Bangladesh’s reliance on importing agricultural products has decreased, particularly with onions, and expressed optimism about future exports.
The discussion was presided over by Cumilla city BNP President and Cumilla Development Authority Chairman Udbatul Bari Abu, with city BNP General Secretary and Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Yousuf Mollah serving as the moderator.