BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed has said that the declaration of independence delivered by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman played a decisive role in guiding the nation at a critical moment in 1971.
Speaking at a press conference at the party’s central office in Dhaka's Nayapaltan on Sunday, Rizvi said the proclamation came at a time when people were uncertain and disoriented during the Liberation War. He described the declaration as a turning point that helped chart a clear course for the country’s struggle for freedom.
“Independence has given Bangladesh a unique identity on the global stage,” Rizvi said, adding that the nation achieved sovereignty through immense sacrifice and bloodshed. He argued that Major Ziaur Rahman’s announcement offered direction and inspiration to the people during a period of confusion.
The press briefing was organized to announce BNP’s programmes marking Independence Day on March 26.
Rizvi said that since independence, Bangladesh has made significant progress in various sectors. He also claimed that attempts to undermine the spirit of independence had ultimately failed.
Referring to previous political conditions, the BNP leader alleged that enforced disappearances and killings had once created a climate of fear, restricting people’s freedoms. In contrast, he said, the current environment allows greater space for expression.
Highlighting the role of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, Rizvi said she had made personal sacrifices to help restore democratic rights. “People can now speak without fear. There is confidence that expressing opinions will not result in disappearance or death,” he said.
He also mentioned BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, stating that the political vision he presented is gradually taking shape, although full implementation will require time and organization.
Rizvi urged political unity to consolidate the democratic process and warned that those engaging in propaganda against it would face public rejection. He described the tolerance of constructive criticism without state repression as an important achievement.
Outlining the party’s Independence Day plans, Rizvi said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will pay tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar at 5:00 am on March 26.
BNP leaders and activists across the country will hoist national flags at central and district offices, while senior party figures will participate in a discussion at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh on March 25 to mark the occasion.
