Dhaka: BNP Acting Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi today reiterated the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) dedication to honoring its commitments to the people. The assurance was made during a tribute at the graves of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, marking the party’s 48th founding anniversary.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizvi emphasized that the BNP, founded by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, has consistently adhered to its foundational principles. These principles include revolutionary programs aimed at national self-reliance and food self-sufficiency. Rizvi highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s contributions to education, culture, and domestic and foreign policy, which elevated Bangladesh’s dignity on the global stage.
Rizvi spoke of the numerous challenges to democracy in Bangladesh, citing disruptions and the rise of fascism. He credited Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with restoring civil liberties and fostering a multi-party democracy, which enabled the formation of various political parties and expanded freedom of expression.
The closure of newspapers following the formation of BAKSAL in 1975 was also discussed. Rizvi attributed the current freedom of the press and the proliferation of media outlets to the efforts of Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia. He reaffirmed the BNP’s commitment to carrying forward Ziaur Rahman’s ideology in labor export and employment initiatives.
Rizvi recounted the disruptions to democracy during Hussain Muhammad Ershad’s martial law regime, highlighting Begum Khaleda Zia’s nine-year struggle to restore democratic governance. He praised her unwavering dedication to keeping promises to the people despite facing severe persecution.
He concluded by saying that Begum Khaleda Zia’s leadership ensured the triumph of democracy over hegemonic and conspiratorial challenges. Despite enduring years of oppression, including imprisonment and denial of basic rights, she remained steadfast in her commitment to democratic ideals. Rizvi noted that her resilience continues to inspire the party’s movement against current challenges.