Home minister for building non-discriminatory Bangladesh following Zia's ideals

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has called on all citizens to work together to build a non-discriminatory, democratic and prosperous Bangladesh in line with the ideals of late president Ziaur Rahman and the aspirations of the student-led 2024 July Uprising.

He made the remarks while briefing journalists after paying tribute and offering prayers at the grave of late president Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital on the occasion of Shaheed Zia's 45th martyrdom anniversary today (30 May).

He said late president Ziaur Rahman played an unparalleled role throughout his life in safeguarding Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty and progress.  He noted that Zia's historic rise began with his declaration of independence in 1971 and that he ultimately embraced martyrdom while defending the country's independence and sovereignty.

Salahuddin said that the path shown by late president Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia remains the foundation of Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty and democracy. 

He emphasised that the nation has transformed its grief into strength and continues to draw inspiration from Zia's vision of national unity and development.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to democracy, the home minister stated that Bangladesh would continue to be governed through a fully democratic process. 

He added that the spirit of the 5 August student-led July Uprising would guide efforts to further strengthen the country's democratic foundations.

The minister also paid tribute to Begum Khaleda Zia for her sacrifices and struggles in defense of democracy, describing her as a leader who has made immense contributions to the democratic movement in Bangladesh.

He said that prayers were offered for the eternal peace of late president Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia, as well as for the overall welfare of the country, while renewing the commitment to serve the people and the nation.