Dhaka:Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Managing Director and Chief Editor Kader Gani Chowdhury emphasized the Zia family's consistent support for the people during national crises, asserting their unwavering commitment to independence, sovereignty, and democracy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Kader Gani made these remarks at a discussion and poetry recitation programme organized by the Jatiyatabadi Lekhok Forum at the Bangla Academy's Al Mahmud Corner, commemorating National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
Kader Gani recalled Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's pivotal role during the Liberation War, highlighting his declaration of independence from the Kalurghat radio station when the political leadership faltered. He noted Ziaur Rahman's subsequent leadership and participation in the Liberation War, which solidified his bond with the people.
He also referenced the period following Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's assassination in 1975, describing the nation's precarious state due to military upheavals. He detailed Ziaur Rahman's emergence as a leader during the November 7 Sipahi-Janata revolution, which led to Bangladesh's self-sufficiency in food.
The political contributions of Begum Khaleda Zia were also underscored, particularly her resistance to autocracy in 1990 and her defiance during the Fakhruddin-Moeenuddin government. Despite personal and familial persecution, she remained steadfast, prioritizing national interests over personal safety.
Kader Gani criticized a segment of the media for supporting fascism and called for responsible journalism. He urged unity against authoritarianism and stressed the importance of building a humane Bangladesh, cautioning against vengeance and violence.
The event, chaired by Poet Shahin Reza, featured a keynote paper by writer Jamal Uddin Jamal and a welcome address by Jatiyatabadi Lekhok Forum General Secretary Prof Dr ABM Shahidul Islam. Poet Jahangir Firoz inaugurated the programme, with poets and writers participating in poetry recitations.