Dhaka, May 30 (V7N) — The nation is observing the 45th martyrdom anniversary of former President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman today, Saturday (May 30). He was assassinated by a group of renegade army officers at the Chittagong Circuit House on this day in 1981.

Ziaur Rahman played a significant role in Bangladesh's War of Independence in 1971. During the Liberation War, he declared the country's independence from the Kalurghat Radio Station in Chattogram and served as the commander of Sector No. 1 and later as the commander of the Z Force. In recognition of his contribution to the war, he was awarded the gallantry title of Bir Uttam.

Born on January 19, 1936, in Bagbari village of Gabtoli upazila in Bogura, Ziaur Rahman emerged as a key political figure following the historic Sepoy-People's Revolution of November 7, 1975. He later became the eighth President of Bangladesh and founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which currently leads the government.

During his tenure, Ziaur Rahman introduced multi-party democracy and implemented several development-oriented initiatives. His administration is credited with promoting agricultural growth through extensive canal excavation programmes, expanding overseas employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, and advancing regional cooperation through his vision for the establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).

To mark the anniversary, BNP has announced an eight-day programme running from May 25 to June 1. The programme includes hoisting black flags, discussions, photo exhibitions, prayer gatherings, and the distribution of food and clothing among underprivileged people across the country.

As part of the observance, BNP hoisted black flags and kept party flags at half-mast at its central office in Naya Paltan and other party offices nationwide at 6:00 am today.

At 11:00 am, Prime Minister and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is scheduled to pay tribute at Ziaur Rahman's grave in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar by laying wreaths and offering Fateha. Senior party leaders will accompany him.

Later in the afternoon, BNP leaders and activists will distribute food and clothing among disadvantaged people as part of the anniversary programme.

END/SMA/AJ