Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has declared that the party will continue to progress by following the path laid out by its founder, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. This assertion was made in a statement issued on the occasion of Ziaur Rahman’s 45th death anniversary.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Fakhrul emphasized the BNP’s commitment to establishing a government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The envisioned government will prioritize accountability, transparency, tolerance of differing opinions, and the protection of all citizens’ rights. Fakhrul underscored the importance of strengthening democratic institutions to establish a stable and enduring democracy in the country.
Fakhrul further stated that the BNP would navigate national crises, struggles, and development by adhering to the ideals and guidance of ‘Shaheed Zia.’ He stressed the necessity of strong national unity to safeguard national interests, pluralistic democracy, and the rights of the people. The BNP has organized various programs to observe the 45th death anniversary of its founder, Ziaur Rahman, on Saturday.
Describing Ziaur Rahman as a ‘gallant freedom fighter and principled statesman,’ Fakhrul noted that Zia’s patriotism, honesty, and dedication continue to inspire nationalist forces. He also alleged that Ziaur Rahman’s popularity was never accepted by ‘domestic and foreign conspirators,’ who plotted against him from the onset of his tenure. These conspirators were responsible for the brutal assassination of President Ziaur Rahman on May 30, 1981, at the Chattogram Circuit House, marking a significant loss for the nation.
Fakhrul expressed that despite attempts by conspirators to erase a great statesman from history, Zia remains eternally alive in the hearts of the people. His late wife, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, upheld his legacy with determination, advancing multi-party democracy and the country’s development while challenging anti-democratic and anti-national forces.
Addressing political developments, Fakhrul claimed that ‘fascist rule’ maintained power for 17 years through fear, enforced disappearances, killings, and repression. He alleged that state resources were laundered abroad, describing the previous ruling system as a ‘looted mafia economy.’ Fakhrul also cited a significant political change following a mass uprising involving students, workers, and the public on August 5, 2024, calling for the completion of the ‘victory’ achieved through the sacrifices of students and citizens.