Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has asserted that there is no alternative to following the path shown by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman to build Bangladesh as an independent, sovereign, and prosperous country. 'The historic role played by Ziaur Rahman during the critical moment of independence in 1971 would be remembered by the nation with respect forever,' he remarked while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting and doa mahfil held at the auditorium of Dhaka Bar Association, marking the 45th martyrdom anniversary of President Ziaur Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Law Minister emphasized that the contributions of Ziaur Rahman and his family are deeply intertwined with the greatest achievements of Bangladesh's national life. He highlighted how, following the political changeover in 1975, Ziaur Rahman was instrumental in opening the door to democracy in Bangladesh. By restoring multi-party democracy, creating opportunities for political activities, and establishing a balance in state governance, he gave a new dimension to the country's democratic advancement.
The Law Minister underscored Ziaur Rahman's role in promoting the independence of the judiciary, noting his significant contributions to establishing 'checks and balances' in the judicial system. He mentioned that the Fifth Amendment was an effort to create an effective balance in the state structure, playing a crucial role in ensuring the independence and effectiveness of the judiciary.
Addressing the current political reality, the Law Minister noted that many of the martyrs and injured during the July uprising came from BNP families. He emphasized that the contributions of those who sacrificed for the establishment of democracy and people's rights should never be ignored. He warned against the denial of history, stating that ignoring the history of the July uprising and earlier democratic movements may lead future generations to undervalue those achievements.
He further stressed the importance of learning from history to advance national unity, democracy, rule of law, and the struggle for people's rights. The Law Minister highlighted the necessity of presenting the ideals and state philosophy of the martyred President Ziaur Rahman to the new generation to further strengthen Bangladesh's progress.
The event, presided over by Dhaka Bar Association President Md Anwar Jahid Bhuiyan and conducted by its General Secretary Mohammad Abul Kalam Khan, also featured speeches by BNP Vice Chairman Zainul Abedin, BNP Chairperson's Adviser and President of Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association Barrister AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon, and former General Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association and BNP's Legal Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal, along with other leaders of the Dhaka Bar Association. The discussion meeting concluded with a special prayer and doa mahfil, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.