BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, despite ongoing challenges, has expressed optimism about the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh.
In a virtual address commemorating the 44th death anniversary of her late husband, former president Ziaur Rahman, she emphasised the need for unity and determination to re-establish democratic governance.
“Very soon, we will see democracy re-established in Bangladesh,” Khaleda said in her recorded message played at a discussion organised at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium in Dhaka.
“Let this be our pledge on the anniversary of Ziaur Rahman’s martyrdom.”
Reflecting on Ziaur Rahman’s legacy, she stated, “We must remember that the politics of democracy and development for all, which Zia left behind as a solution to all problems, must be implemented to truly honour him. We pray for the salvation of his departed soul.”
“In the fight to establish democracy and protect sovereignty, for which Shaheed Ziaur Rahman sacrificed his life, the democratic journey remains hindered even today,” said the former prime minister as she called upon BNP leaders, activists, and citizens to move forward in an organised manner toward the goal of reinstating democracy.
Khaleda Zia also paid tribute to her late husband, describing him as “the architect of democracy, independence, press freedom, judicial autonomy, self-reliance, development, and a distinct nationalism.”
She recalled the day of his assassination on May 30, 1981, as a day of profound sorrow for both her family and the nation.
“President Ziaur Rahman, a name inseparably tied to the birth of our beloved motherland, declared independence from Chattogram and made his name synonymous with Bangladesh. In that very place, he sacrificed his life as a successful, honest, visionary, and true patriot,” she added.
The BNP has planned several events to honour Ziaur Rahman’s memory and his legacy, including hoisting black flags atop all party offices and placing wreaths at his grave at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on Friday. Party leaders and activists will also offer prayers for the salvation of his soul. Party flags will be kept at half-mast.