Dhaka: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has reiterated that the security and independence of Bangladesh remain firmly in the hands of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). He emphasized the significance of the party’s leadership in the nation’s development and independence during a discussion organized by BNP’s Daganbhuiyan Upazila and Municipal units on the occasion of the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mintoo highlighted the pivotal role played by Major Ziaur Rahman during Bangladesh’s Liberation War. He pointed out that while some parties only speak of independence, it was Major Ziaur Rahman who declared it and took part in the armed struggle, providing essential leadership. Following the war, Ziaur Rahman’s leadership brought about significant changes in the country, according to Mintoo.
Mintoo recalled that Ziaur Rahman, the founder of BNP, was assassinated on May 30, 1980. His wife, Begum Khaleda Zia, continued his legacy and contributed to nation-building, he added. Mintoo mentioned that the people regained their voting rights and mandated the BNP through a free and fair general election on February 12 this year.
Upholding the ideals of Ziaur Rahman and the late Khaleda Zia, their son, current Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has once again set the nation on a developmental trajectory, Mintoo stated. He also addressed issues like drug abuse and juvenile gangs, emphasizing the collective responsibility of parents, teachers, social and political leaders, and the administration in establishing peace and order.
Mintoo asserted that BNP leaders and activists bear greater responsibility than others due to their position in government. He urged the party members to play a leading role in ensuring public peace and security and called for unity within the party, advising against letting internal competition turn into hostility.
The program was chaired by Upazila BNP President Md. Akbar Hossain and moderated by Municipal BNP Member Secretary Humayun Kabir Babu. Prominent BNP leaders and activists, including Advocate Mezbah Uddin Khan, Sheikh Farid Bahar, and others, spoke at the event. The gathering concluded with a prayer led by Maulana Enayetur Rahman for the eternal peace of Ziaur Rahman’s soul.