BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said former president Ziaur Rahman brought sweeping changes to Bangladesh within three and a half years of assuming leadership, laying the foundation for the country`s political and economic transformation.
Speaking after paying tribute at Ziaur Rahman’s grave in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar on the occasion of his 45th death anniversary, Fakhrul said Zia restored multiparty democracy and introduced a free-market economy at a critical time in the country`s history.
According to the BNP leader, these initiatives marked the beginning of a new chapter for Bangladesh, helping the country move away from political instability and economic difficulties.
He said Bangladesh, once described internationally as a "bottomless basket," began progressing toward prosperity under Ziaur Rahman’s leadership.
Fakhrul described Zia as the proclaimer of independence, a pioneer of multiparty democracy and an architect of modern Bangladesh.
Recalling previous commemorations, he said BNP leaders and activists had often faced obstacles in observing the anniversary during past administrations, adding that this year`s programme was held in a free environment.
The BNP secretary general said Ziaur Rahman sought to modernise the country`s governance structure after assuming office through a democratic process.
He also credited the former president with helping Bangladesh recover from the economic challenges and food shortages that followed the 1974 famine, while boosting agricultural production and moving the country toward food self-sufficiency.
Fakhrul said Zia united people behind a vision of national development and reform, describing the period as one of significant transformation.
Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman as Zia`s political successor, he said the current government has already launched a number of reform and production-focused initiatives.
He cited programmes such as the Family Card and Farmers’ Card as efforts aimed at creating new momentum in economic and social development.
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