Ziaur Rahman established freedom of speech through multiparty democracy: Sultan Salauddin Tuku
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, established freedom of speech in Bangladesh by introducing a multiparty democratic system.
He said that under Ziaur Rahman's leadership, Bangladesh returned to a democratic path, opening opportunities for greater political participation.
He made these remarks as the chief guest at a discussion titled "His Life, Work and Ideals," organised by Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University to mark the 45th death anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam.
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Sultan Salauddin Tuku said, "During a period of political crisis, Ziaur Rahman led the Liberation War by proclaiming independence. Following the war, he played a pivotal role in rebuilding the nation, attaining food self-sufficiency, and securing the political rights of the people."
He emphasised that democracy was the core spirit of the Liberation War, adding that Ziaur Rahman introduced multiparty politics to strengthen democratic practices.
He further noted that freedom of expression and political liberty were central to Ziaur Rahman's political philosophy.
The State Minister also said that the current government holds a mandate from the electorate and that its performance will ultimately be assessed by the public.
He urged all stakeholders to uphold unity and solidarity in the national interest, beyond political divisions and discord.
Sultan Salauddin Tuku also called on all to remain united in upholding the spirit of the anti-fascist movement, ensuring that authoritarian or repressive political cultures do not resurface in Bangladesh.
The discussion was chaired by Professor Dr Mostafa Kamal Nasir of Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, and Professor Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, Vice-Chancellor of Jahangirnagar University, delivered the keynote address.
Professor Dr A B M Shahidul Islam, Vice-Chancellor of Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, served as special discussion leader, and Mahmudul Haque Sanu, former member secretary of Tangail District Bangladesh Nationalist Party, attended as special guest.
Faculty members, students, and leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and its affiliated organisations were also in attendance.
