Dhaka:The ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) commemorated National Revolution and Solidarity Day with extensive state-level events on Saturday. This marks the first time the day was celebrated at such a scale since the BNP assumed power through the February 12 parliamentary election, ending 17 years of what it described as authoritarian rule.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the BNP-led government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, declared November 7 a public holiday, marking the occasion with rallies and various programs nationwide. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman led a central procession in Dhaka, his first rally as the party's chairman since returning from a 17-year exile in London.
The procession started at the BNP's central office in Nayapaltan at 3:30pm and concluded at Manik Mia Avenue, covering nearly six kilometers. Thousands of BNP leaders and supporters participated, turning the Paltan area into a festive zone. Senior BNP leaders, including Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Salahuddin Ahmed, accompanied Tarique throughout the event.
Earlier in the day, Tarique paid tribute to the graves of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. In addition to the central rally, the Armed Forces organized various programs, including a special display at the Army Stadium, with participation from the Bangladesh Cadet Corps and Bangladesh Scouts.
The day was part of a broader seven-day program by the BNP, including rallies, discussions, and cultural events. Nationwide events included improved diets for institutional residents, free park entry for children, and educational activities. The Dhaka Elevated Expressway was toll-free for six hours as part of the celebration.