President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Friday said that the simple and selfless life, strong personality, unquestionable integrity and pragmatic statesmanship of former president Ziaur Rahman would remain eternally alive in the hearts of the people.
He said Ziaur Rahman’s eventful life, deep patriotism, firm stance against corruption, commitment to justice and fairness, vision of a self-reliant Bangladesh and enduring ideals would continue to inspire the younger generation.
The President made the remarks in a message issued on the eve of the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.
Paying deep respect to his memory, Shahabuddin said Ziaur Rahman fell victim to a deep-rooted anti-state conspiracy and was brutally assassinated at Chattogram Circuit House on May 30, 1981.
He said the nation would always remember with respect Ziaur Rahman’s contributions as a freedom fighter, proclaimer of independence, introducer of multi-party democracy, architect of modern Bangladesh and visionary statesman.
The President noted that at the beginning of the Liberation War in 1971, Ziaur Rahman called on the nation to take up arms against the Pakistani occupation forces in the early hours of March 26.
His declaration of independence and call for resistance, he said, inspired the entire nation to join the Liberation War. For his courage and contribution, Ziaur Rahman was awarded the gallantry title of ‘Bir Uttam’.
Shahabuddin further said that after assuming state power, Ziaur Rahman established multi-party democracy, ensured freedom of speech and the press, and united the nation under the spirit of Bangladeshi nationalism.
He added that Zia introduced a series of development plans and programmes aimed at accelerating socio-economic progress, boosting investment and exports, achieving self-reliance and improving living standards.
His 19-point programme, the President said, served as a roadmap for building a productive and self-reliant Bangladesh.
The President also noted that Ziaur Rahman pursued a balanced foreign policy to safeguard Bangladesh’s interests internationally and played a key role in opening overseas labour markets, particularly in the Middle East.
Although his tenure was relatively short, Shahabuddin said, Ziaur Rahman led the country with patriotism, dedication and foresight, leaving a lasting legacy in the nation’s history.
