Dhaka: Today marks the 48th founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), established by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. The party started its journey on September 1, 1978, with Ziaur Rahman, the founding chairman, leading the organization until his assassination by a group of military personnel in 1981.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the BNP has planned a five-day programme to commemorate the anniversary. As part of the celebration, Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman paid homage to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia by placing wreaths at their graves at Zia Udyan in the capital.
The programme includes a discussion scheduled for September 5. Additionally, the party will conduct a fish fry release event, led by Joint Secretary General Habibun Nabi Khan Sohel, on a suitable date. A tree plantation campaign will also be organized under the leadership of BNP Joint Secretary General and Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anne.
Following Ziaur Rahman’s assassination, Begum Khaleda Zia assumed leadership of the BNP, serving as chairperson until her death. After her imprisonment in 2018, Tarique Rahman took over as acting chairman and later became the party chief following her demise last year.
Under Khaleda Zia’s leadership, the BNP played a significant role in the struggle against dictator Ershad, eventually forming the government after winning the 1991 national elections. The party regained power in 2001 by securing a majority.
The BNP faced numerous challenges since the 1/11 changeover in 2007, enduring oppression and torture until 2024. The party’s leaders and activists, including Begum Khaleda Zia, experienced severe repression during the struggle against the Awami League regime.
The BNP’s participation in the mass uprising of 2024 was pivotal in ending the 16-year-long regime, leading to Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure from the country. Despite facing obstacles, the BNP continued its efforts to hold meetings and rallies during this period.
In the recent 13th national election held on February 12, the BNP secured a landslide victory with a two-thirds majority in parliament, forming the government under Tarique Rahman’s leadership.