Dhaka: Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Bir Uttam championed liberal politics through the introduction of multi-party democracy, creating a tolerant political environment and restoring peace. His efforts in fostering a fair voting environment marked a significant shift in the political landscape.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ziaur Rahman’s political journey began at the grassroots level, where he initiated programmes that extended beyond politics into economic and social realms. His center-left social democratic programme aimed at restructuring the country, emphasizing the importance of village development alongside urban progress. This philosophy underscored the belief that economic advancement hinged on improving rural conditions.
Ziaur Rahman implemented initiatives for agricultural irrigation, canal digging, education, security, communication systems, electricity provision, and the maintenance of agricultural necessities, reflecting his commitment to rural life development. Administrative decentralization led to the establishment of the Village Government and the Village Defense Force, enhancing local governance and increasing public involvement, especially among women and youths.
Following Bangladesh’s war-torn independence, the country grappled with a fragile economy and an unsustainable policy system under previous administrations. In contrast, Ziaur Rahman’s approach prioritized a state-controlled free market policy, creating a more investment-friendly environment and stabilizing the economy. His regime saw significant growth in both government and private sectors, with notable increases in agricultural production and industrial output.
Ziaur Rahman’s policies were also marked by an emphasis on fair wealth distribution and gender equality, aspiring to create a production-oriented economy and improve living standards. His commitment to environment-friendly development was evident in initiatives like canal digging and social forestry, which harmonized economic growth with environmental preservation.
These comprehensive reforms not only revitalized the economy but also connected Ziaur Rahman directly with the people. His active engagement in grassroots activities, such as canal digging, set a precedent for political leaders to collaborate intimately with citizens, solidifying his political foundation and legacy.