BNP Secretary General and Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives (LGRD) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said the vision of late president Ziaur Rahman for building a modern, effective and well-governed Bangladesh remains as relevant today as ever.
He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after paying tribute at Ziaur Rahman’s grave in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, marking the 45th martyrdom anniversary of the BNP founder.
Fakhrul called on all political forces and citizens to work together to ensure the country’s progress and democratic advancement.
He said people had long been unable to observe the day freely due to what he described as the “grip of fascism,” but now had greater freedom to commemorate their leader.
“The dream that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman envisioned for a modern, functional and well-governed Bangladesh remains highly relevant today,” Fakhrul said.
He claimed that Ziaur Rahman played a significant role in laying the foundation for a modern state structure by moving away from outdated systems of governance.
The BNP secretary general said Zia’s development philosophy and statecraft continue to serve as important guidelines for the country's advancement.
According to him, many of the ongoing reform initiatives in the country are consistent with the principles and vision promoted by Ziaur Rahman.
Fakhrul also said BNP would continue to pursue the ideals and policy direction of its founder in its efforts to establish good governance and effective state management.
Referring to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, he said the party leader was working for the welfare of the country and its people by following the ideals and philosophy of Ziaur Rahman.
Leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies paid tributes at the grave throughout the day as part of programmes marking the anniversary. The party also observed various commemorative events across the country.
