On the 44th death anniversary of President Ziaur Rahman, the BNP’s acting chairman calls for fulfilling the aspirations of those who gave their lives for democracy and people's rights.

In a commemorative event held in London, BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman emphasized the urgent need to build Bangladesh in accordance with the dreams and sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for democracy and the rights of the people. Speaking at a Qur’an recitation and prayer event organized by UK BNP on the occasion of the 44th martyrdom anniversary of the party’s founder, President Ziaur Rahman, Tarique called upon all to uphold the values and goals for which these individuals had made the ultimate sacrifice.

“We must strive to fulfill the vision of those who gave their lives for democracy and the establishment of people’s rights,” said Tarique Rahman. “It is our responsibility—those of us who are still alive—to shape a Bangladesh that meets the hopes of its people and honors the aspirations of those who are no longer with us. May Allah grant us the ability to do so.”

He recalled the historical role played by his father, the late President Ziaur Rahman, in establishing multi-party democracy in Bangladesh. Tarique remarked that this democratic momentum has been repeatedly obstructed over time due to various conspiracies. “The way President Ziaur Rahman introduced multi-party democracy remains a milestone in our political history, but numerous plots over the years have attempted to derail this democratic process,” he said.

Tarique Rahman highlighted that the struggle to secure civil and political rights, including freedom of speech, has come at a significant cost. “In this fight, countless activists from BNP and other political parties, as well as people from various walks of life, have become martyrs. Many have sacrificed their lives, been injured, or forced to live with permanent disabilities,” he stated.

He further reflected on the state violence and repression that occurred less than a year ago, citing the events of July and August as particularly tragic. “If we recall the days of July and August, we can understand the scale of brutality that was unleashed to retain power. People were killed in cold blood, many lost their eyesight, and numerous others were left physically disabled,” he said.

Tarique also referenced statistics from the United Nations, claiming that 66 children were killed during that period of state-led repression. “These acts of violence demonstrate the ruthless measures adopted by those trying to hold on to illegitimate power,” he said.

In his concluding remarks, Tarique Rahman urged everyone to pray for the late President Ziaur Rahman and for all those who suffered, sacrificed, or died in the pursuit of a democratic and independent Bangladesh. “I seek prayers from all for Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. Let us also remember in our prayers every individual who has lost their life, been harmed, or suffered any form of injustice while striving to uphold democracy and national freedom,” he said.

The event, solemn and reflective, brought together members of the UK BNP and the broader Bangladeshi diaspora in remembrance and renewed commitment to the democratic ideals set forth by the party’s founder.