Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today stated that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman instilled in the nation the strength to stand tall with heads held high. He made these remarks while leading a discussion meeting organized by the BNP at the IDEB in the capital, commemorating the 90th birth anniversary of BNP founder Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mirza Fakhrul emphasized Ziaur Rahman’s significant contribution to giving the nation a distinct identity through the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism. He pointed out that Ziaur Rahman’s leadership during the Liberation War and his proclamation of the country’s independence established Bangladesh with honor on the international stage. Fakhrul highlighted that Ziaur Rahman taught the nation to never bow their heads to anyone and to uphold the flag of independence, sovereignty, and democracy.
Mirza Fakhrul noted that after the assassination of Ziaur Rahman, many expected the BNP to dissolve. However, Begum Khaleda Zia revitalized the party, and even after her imprisonment, Tarique Rahman continued to uphold the party’s ideals. He recounted a visit to China in 2002 where the Chinese Prime Minister encouraged Tarique Rahman to carry the legacy of his parents. Fakhrul also mentioned Tarique Rahman’s return from exile was welcomed with massive public support, as he shared plans for economic emancipation, democracy, and peace in the country.
The BNP Secretary General contrasted the party’s vision with those who only speak of threats and oppression, while emphasizing the importance of tolerance as promoted by Begum Khaleda Zia. He recalled Ziaur Rahman’s role in restoring multi-party democracy and freedom of the press, and discussed the BNP’s proposed state reforms outlined in 2022.
Fakhrul criticized the misleading politics around religion and reaffirmed the BNP’s belief in religious values, noting Ziaur Rahman’s inclusion of ‘Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim’ in the Constitution.
BNP leaders, including Mirza Abbas, Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan, and Nazrul Islam Khan, spoke on the occasion, emphasizing the need to follow Ziaur Rahman’s path for Bangladesh’s progress. They highlighted his integrity, disciplined leadership, self-confidence, and contributions to making the country self-sufficient in food.
Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan urged the new generation to draw inspiration from Ziaur Rahman’s life, while Nazrul Islam Khan called for a pledge to implement Zia’s ideals of patriotism and hard work in daily life.