Ziaur Rahman laid foundation stone of modern Bangladesh: Deputy Speaker

"He laid the foundation stone of modern Bangladesh through his honesty, patriotism, courage and farsightedness," he added. 

The Deputy Speaker was speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting and Doa Mahfil organised by the Durgapur Upazila unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in Durgapur of Netrakona this afternoon, marking the 45th death anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman. 

Recalling the bravery demonstrated by Ziaur Rahman during his military career, Barrister Kayser Kamal said that as a young officer aged only 20-22 during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, he was awarded a gallantry title for the strategy and courage he displayed. 

Highlighting the background of the Great War of Liberation in 1971, the Deputy Speaker said, "When the political leadership of the country was suffering from indecision and the Pakistani occupation forces descended upon the people of this country, Major Ziaur Rahman declared rebellion without regard for his own life and family." 

He further said that although Ziaur Rahman returned to the barracks after the Liberation War, he had to take over the responsibility of running the state through the Sipahi-Janata (Soldier-People) Revolution at a critical juncture of the nation. He freed the country from the darkness of one-party rule and re-established multi-party democracy. 

Ziaur Rahman was the visionary behind the development of the garments industry and the remittances flowing into the country today through overseas manpower exports, he said, adding that his contribution to establishing successful diplomatic relations with China and Middle Eastern countries, as well as launching the canal-digging programme that supported the country's agricultural revolution, is undeniable. 

Mentioning the simple lifestyle of Ziaur Rahman during his presidency, Barrister Kayser Kamal said, "He was a truly honest man. Despite being in state power, he lived a very simple life. The broken suitcase and torn shirt he left behind after his death proved that he did not use the country's wealth for personal gain. Running his family on a limited income and wearing a simple shirt as presidential attire are signs of his honesty." 

Calling upon party leaders and activists to follow his example, the Deputy Speaker said those who want to engage in genuine politics should learn from the life and work of Ziaur Rahman. He urged party activists to work for the welfare of the country and its people by cherishing the ideals of Martyr Zia in their hearts rather than merely being political workers. 

The function, organized by Durgapur Upazila BNP, was attended by local leaders and members of the general public. At the end of the programme, a Doa Mahfil was held for the eternal peace of the departed soul of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, and prayers were offered for the prosperity of the country and the nation. 

Top leaders of Durgapur Upazila BNP and its associate organizations were present on the stage, reports BSS.