Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday called on the people to embrace the ideals of former president Ziaur Rahman and engage in nation‑building.
He made the appeal while speaking at gatherings before distributing clothes and dry food among the poor in the ECB and Kuril areas of Dhaka, part of programmes marking the 45th death anniversary of the BNP founder.
The PM said, “The main objective of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s politics was to serve the country and stand by the people. At the same time, former president Ziaur Rahman taught us how to work for the country and how to build the nation.”
“As part of that philosophy, we are standing by disadvantaged people today with a helping hand,” he added, referring to the distribution programme.
Tarique said the government had been entrusted with the responsibility of serving the people and rebuilding the country following the 12 February election. He added, “We pray to Almighty Allah to grant us the blessings to properly fulfil the opportunity He has given us to build the country and stand by its people.”
“Let this be our pledge today, let this be our commitment,” he also said.
Later, the prime minister distributed clothes and dry food among poor people.
Earlier in the day, around 11am, Tarique, also BNP chairman, paid tribute to Ziaur Rahman on his 45th death anniversary. He first laid a wreath at Zia’s grave in Sher‑e‑Bangla Nagar as Prime Minister, then placed another wreath as BNP chairman. He was accompanied by Standing Committee members Gayeshwar Chandra Roy, Abdul Moyeen Khan, Salahuddin Ahmed and AZM Zahid Hossain.
Following the wreath‑laying, Tarique inaugurated the relief programme at Rajdhani High School premises on Manik Mia Avenue by distributing food among the poor.
As part of the anniversary observance, clothes and dry food are being distributed at 17 locations across Dhaka city.
