Rangpur: Without regard for his family, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman declared independence for Bangladesh from Kalurghat in Chattogram, according to BNP Standing Committee member Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain. Despite being a Major at the time, Ziaur Rahman prioritized the nation’s independence over personal concerns.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Zahid emphasized that Shaheed Zia was actively involved in the fight for independence and faced discrimination in the newly independent country. Dr. Zahid made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at a discussion organized by the Rangpur district and Metropolitan units of BNP on the occasion of the historic 7th November National Revolution and Solidarity Day.
The event, presided over by Rangpur Metropolitan BNP Convener Shamsuzzaman Samu, was held at the district Shilpokola Academy auditorium. Other notable speakers included Organizing Secretary of BNP Central Executive Committee (Rangpur division) Principal Asadul Habib Dulu, Rural Development
Affairs Secretary Farhad Hossain Azad, and Assistant Organizing Secretaries Abdul Khaleque and Professor Aminul Islam.
Dr. Zahid remarked on the complexity of historical narratives, noting that different generations may have varying interpretations of Bangladesh’s independence. He stressed the importance of acknowledging the past to move forward, warning against repeating historical mistakes.
Recalling the events of November 7, 1975, Dr. Zahid stated that soldiers and citizens brought Shaheed Zia to power to guide a nation lacking direction. He emphasized that Zia did not seek power for himself and highlighted BNP’s belief in the empowerment of people as the source of all power.
Dr. Zahid also addressed the necessity of national unity, asserting that Bangladeshis must work together to progress. He advocated for ongoing reforms that reflect the evolving needs of the population, referencing national leader Tarique Rahman’s 31-point proposal as a framework for future development.
The discussion was moderated
by district BNP member-secretary Md Anisur Rahman Laku and Metropolitan BNP member-secretary Advocate Mahfuz Un Nabi Don.