President Zia’s death anniversary today

The 44th anniversary of the death of Bangladesh Nationalist Party founder Ziaur Rahman, also a former president of the country, will be observed today.

The BNP, along with its front and associate  organisations, will mark the anniversary with an elaborate eight-day programme from May 25 to June 2.

The 7th president of Bangladesh, from 1977 till 1981, Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated by a group of army officers at the Chattogram circuit house on May 30, 1981.

Zia came in the limelight by making the declaration of independence in March 1971 on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding president of the country.

He was a sector commander and led the Z Force during the Liberation War in 1971.

He was decorated with the gallantry award Bir Uttam for valour in the war.

On November 7, 1975, he was freed by sepoys and people from captivity at the hands of a section of the army and was brought to power.

Born on January 19, 1936 at Bagbari village in Bogura, Zia became the country’s president in April 1977.

He founded the BNP in 1978.

To commemorate the death anniversary of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman today, the party will observe various programmes nationwide.

Black flags will be hoisted and party flags kept at half-mast at party offices, including its Nayapaltan headquarters.

Party leaders and activists will place wreaths, offer prayers, and participate in a doa and milad mahfil at Zia’s grave.

Additionally, the party will organise mass prayers, distribute food and clothing among underprivileged, and publish special newspaper supplements on the occasion.

The BNP units across the country will also hold programmes on Zia.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, a discussion was held at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh in the capital to commemorate the life and work of Zia.