Dhaka: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today emphasized the importance of presenting an accurate history of the Liberation War to ensure the young generation learns the true story of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. Tarique Rahman made these remarks while virtually participating in a discussion titled “Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman: Whose Story is Our Philosophy,” organized by the Ziaur Rahman Foundation (ZRF) at the Shaheed Abu Sayeed International Convention Center on Mintu Road in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tarique Rahman highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s dedication to the nation as a soldier, who proclaimed the war of liberation and inspired freedom fighters. Ziaur Rahman, he noted, played a pivotal role in uniting the people to achieve independence, thereby fulfilling his highest responsibility as a soldier. Tarique Rahman expressed hope that future members of the armed forces would draw inspiration from Ziaur Rahman’s legacy.
Tarique Rahman further elaborated on Ziaur Rahman’s philosophy of life, describing his political journey that extended beyond Dhaka as he engaged with the people to understand and address their issues. He credited Ziaur Rahman with uniting individuals under a Bangladeshi identity, contributing to BNP’s popularity due to his influence as a politician.
He also praised Ziaur Rahman’s contributions to industrial expansion, particularly the garment industry, and his success as a soldier, politician, and head of state. Emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression, Tarique Rahman advocated for consensus on ensuring voting rights and freedom of speech to strengthen democracy.
Dr. Zubaida Rahman, Tarique Rahman’s wife, also spoke at the event, recalling the lives and contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. The program, organized by ZRF to commemorate Ziaur Rahman’s 89th birth anniversary, included a photography exhibition and storytelling event. The event featured performances by singers Kanak Chapa and Baby Nazneen, along with participation from children and teenagers.
A large number of attendees, including political and professional figures, visited the exhibition. The event concluded with a discussion meeting featuring remarks from BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, who highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s role in declaring independence and his leadership during challenging times.
The program also screened an analytical documentary on Ziaur Rahman, presented by Professor Emeritus Eddy Van Driessche of the Free University of Brussels.