SANGSAD BHABAN, APR 30 (V7N) — Local Government, Rural Development (LGRD) and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today asserted that the family of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman holds an unparalleled legacy in protecting Bangladesh’s freedom and sovereignty.

Speaking during the thanksgiving motion on the President’s address in the Jatiya Sangsad, the Minister highlighted the historical role of the Zia family in establishing a "sovereign and democratic" nation. The session was presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram.

Addressing criticisms from the opposition, Mirza Fakhrul expressed regret over labels characterizing the BNP as "anti-reformist."

Reformist Roots: "We are the pioneers of reforms," the Minister stated, defending the party's historical and current policy shifts.

Constitutional Integrity: He emphasized that the constitution is inextricably linked to the blood of three million martyrs. While acknowledging that various articles have been amended over time, he noted that the struggle for constitutional rights remains central to the party's identity.

Respect for the Presidency: Fakhrul urged all lawmakers to uphold the dignity of the President’s office, describing the President as the "protector of the constitution."

Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood Tuku joined the discussion, crediting Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with modernizing the economy through manpower development and the foundation of the Ready-Made Garment (RMG) sector. He expressed confidence that the current government, under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, would successfully build a "New Bangladesh" by following the strategic blueprint laid out by the late President.

Ministers' Voices: Social Welfare Minister Abu Zafar Md Zahid Hossain thanked the President for acknowledging the country’s transition away from the previous "fascist regime" and highlighting the current government’s development agenda.

Internal Tensions: Lawmaker Gayeshwar Chandra Roy criticized Jamaat-e-Islami for its perceived silence during Begum Khaleda Zia’s imprisonment, contrasting it with the BNP Chairperson's historical calls for fair trials for Jamaat leaders.

Justice for Victims: Leader of the Opposition Dr. Shafiqur Rahman urged the administration to expedite the trial of those involved in killings and forced disappearances, specifically mentioning the case of Sharif Osman Hadi.

The 1st session of the 13th Parliament, which began on March 12, concluded its 50-hour scheduled discussion on the President's address. The thanksgiving motion, moved by Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam and seconded by Whip Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, was adopted by voice vote and will be formally sent to President Mohammed Shahabuddin.

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