Zia guided nation at every critical moment: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Saturday said former president Ziaur Rahman served as a guiding force for the nation during some of the most significant periods in Bangladesh’s history.

Speaking at a food distribution programme in front of the High Court marking Ziaur Rahman’s 45th martyrdom anniversary, Rizvi said the BNP founder played a pivotal role in shaping the country‍‍`s political and economic direction.

He said Ziaur Rahman provided leadership through his declaration of independence, restoration of multiparty democracy, economic reconstruction efforts and pursuit of an independent foreign policy.

Referring to the Liberation War, Rizvi said Major Ziaur Rahman’s declaration of independence from Kalurghat Radio Station in Chattogram inspired people from all walks of life to join the struggle for freedom.

The BNP leader also alleged that successive governments had attempted to downplay Ziaur Rahman’s contribution to the country‍‍`s independence and political development.

He claimed that democracy had been weakened during the early 1970s and credited Ziaur Rahman with restoring multiparty politics and creating space for political participation.

Rizvi further said the former president helped rebuild a war-ravaged economy through agricultural expansion, canal excavation, overseas employment opportunities and other development initiatives aimed at achieving self-reliance.

He also highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s position on transboundary water issues, saying he raised Bangladesh’s concerns over the Farakka Barrage at the international level and advocated for the country’s fair share of river water.

According to Rizvi, the cornerstone of Ziaur Rahman’s foreign policy was maintaining balanced international relations while prioritising national interests.

The BNP leader also referred to several ongoing government initiatives, including Family Card, Farmers Card and Health Card programmes, saying they were designed to support low-income and rural communities.

He expressed hope that these measures would improve public welfare and contribute to national development.

Several BNP leaders, legal professionals and political figures attended the programme.