Dhaka, Jan 19 (V7N) — The 90th birth anniversary of former President and founding chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Shaheed Ziaur Rahman (Bir Uttam), is being observed across the country today with due dignity and respect. The BNP and its affiliated organizations are marking the day through various programs on Monday (January 19).

Ziaur Rahman was born on this day in 1936 into a respectable Muslim family in the remote village of Bagbari under Gabtoli upazila of Bogra district. His father, Mansur Rahman, was a senior scientific officer of the then central government, while his mother, Jahanara Khatun, was a housewife. He was the second among five brothers. From an early age, he exhibited strong patriotism, discipline and leadership qualities.

He joined the Pakistan Military Academy as an officer cadet in 1953 and demonstrated courage and professionalism throughout his military career. In September 1970, he was transferred to Chittagong, from where he played a significant role in the Liberation War of 1971.

At a critical moment in the nation’s history, on March 26, 1971, Ziaur Rahman declared Bangladesh’s independence from the Kalurghat Radio Station in Chittagong. His historic announcement—“I am Major Zia, I am speaking”—inspired the disoriented nation and encouraged people to join the Liberation War. During the war, he fought bravely against the Pakistani army in Chittagong, the Chittagong Hill Tracts and Noakhali regions. He also formed and led the valiant ‘Z Force’, which played a crucial role in the war effort.

Following independence, Ziaur Rahman served the Bangladesh Army with distinction. After the political upheaval of 1975, he emerged as a leader at a critical juncture and took initiatives to restore stability in the country. During his tenure, multi-party democracy was reintroduced, freedom of the press was ensured, and Bangladesh’s international standing was strengthened through an independent and pragmatic foreign policy. His contribution to the formation of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was also notable.

Shaheed Ziaur Rahman was martyred on May 30, 1981, at the Chittagong Circuit House in a violent incident involving some misguided military officers. The nation was deeply shocked by his assassination. The presence of hundreds of thousands of people at his funeral at Sher-e-Banglanagar reflected his widespread popularity and public respect.

In a message marking the occasion, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir described Shaheed Ziaur Rahman as a visionary statesman and a symbol of independence, sovereignty, democracy and nationalism. He prayed for the eternal peace of Shaheed Zia’s soul and called upon the people to unite to establish democracy and restore voting rights, inspired by his ideals.

To commemorate the birth anniversary, BNP has organized party flag hoisting, discussion meetings and prayer mahfils across the country, including at the BNP central office. BNP National Standing Committee members and leaders and activists at various levels will place wreaths and offer Fateha at the grave of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Banglanagar at 11 am today. Additionally, a discussion meeting will be held tomorrow (Tuesday) at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh auditorium in Kakrail.

END/SMA/AJ