Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today extolled former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia as a symbol of leadership and democracy, highlighting her sacrifice and contribution to establishing the rights of the country's people.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister praised her undeniable contributions, from opposing the Ershad autocratic regime to restoring democracy and introducing the caretaker government system to ensure free and fair elections. Swapon made these remarks while addressing the unveiling ceremony of the book "July Andolon Ebong Gulibiddho Dui Chokh" by Sayema Zerin at the Kabi Sufia Kamal Auditorium of the National Museum this evening.
Swapon emphasized that Khaleda Zia remained steadfast in her commitment to the people's rights despite facing significant oppression. He noted that building new systems requires creativity and political maturity, and he reaffirmed the government's commitment to a robust parliamentary system where debates and accountability are prioritized.
He warned against divisions caused by social media dramas and stressed the importance of removing societal blindness to prevent the resurgence of fascism. He linked the July Mass Uprising of 2024 with the Liberation War, emphasizing both movements aimed to establish people's rights and social justice.
The minister urged vigilance to protect the spirit of the Liberation War and the sacrifices of the July movement. State Minister for Planning Zonayed Abdur Rahim Saki, lawmaker Helen Zerin Khan, and BNP Joint Organising Secretary Khondokar Mashukur Rahman also spoke at the event, which included emotional accounts from family members of July Martyrs and injured fighters.