Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said Bangladeshi nationalism is the strongest and most effective political philosophy for uniting all people on the basis of their civic identity, eliminating divisions based on religion, race, language, or ethnic identity.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Swapon emphasized the necessity of developing a sustainable philosophy of governance that recognizes and upholds the identity and dignity of all people living within Bangladesh's 56,000-square-mile territory. He was speaking as the chief guest at the unveiling and publication ceremony of a book titled 'Bangladeshi Nationalism, Tarique Rahman and the Current Context' at Jatiya Press Club.
Swapon highlighted the importance of ensuring equal rights and security for minority communities alongside the majority in a democratic state. He noted that history has shown identity-based divisions have contributed to crises, including developments in the Chattogram Hill Tracts. These experiences, he said, demonstrate the need for a political structure that embraces diversity.
The minister also recalled the historic contribution of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who developed the political framework of Bangladeshi nationalism to strengthen multiparty democracy. Following the political changeover of 1975, Zia introduced a new political trend through the establishment of multiparty politics and the founding of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Swapon stated that the legacy of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman was carried forward by his wife Begum Khaleda Zia through political struggle and movement. Their son, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, is now continuing this tradition. He stressed the importance of understanding the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism to appreciate the current political reality and Tarique Rahman's leadership.
BNP Chairman's Adviser Advocate Nazmul Haque Nannu chaired the event, while Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, MP, also addressed the gathering.