BNP leaders gather to mark Ziaur Rahman’s death anniversary

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid has credited late President Ziaur Rahman with steadfast leadership during the nation's most challenging times, saying he stood by the people until his final days.

Rashid made the remarks as chief guest at a discussion and prayer mahfil organised by the Comilla South District and Metropolitan BNP at the Shilpakala Academy in Comilla city.

The event marked the 45th death anniversary of Ziaur Rahman, described by organisers as the proclaimer of independence and a proponent of multi-party democracy.

Amin highlighted Ziaur Rahman's contributions to the country's democratic development.

"His ideology, honesty, sense of responsibility and people-focused politics remain exemplary for the nation today," Rashid said.

He called on party leaders and activists to reflect Ziaur Rahman's ideals through discipline, public engagement and welfare-focused initiatives to meet public expectations.

Rashid said the people had entrusted the BNP government with the responsibility to ensure transparency, accountability and a welfare-oriented state.

He emphasised that to fulfil this mandate, political workers must act responsibly, exercise restraint, and remain accountable to the public.

Expressing concern over social decline, Rashid alleged that a vested group was fuelling drug abuse, juvenile delinquency and social unrest.

He called for coordinated efforts among political leaders, local administration and social organisations to prevent youth from going astray.

He proposed forming support committees at metropolitan, district, upazila and union levels to monitor law and order and assist local administrations.

Rashid warned against misusing the names of the government or the party for unethical activities.

"The people have voted this government to power with immense trust. We must ensure that no action compromises the integrity or image of the government or the party," he said.

Highlighting the importance of his portfolios, Rashid said agriculture and livestock are directly linked to the country's economy, food security and livelihoods.

He reiterated his commitment to serving the country and sought prayers to discharge his duties with honesty and transparency.

Paying tribute to party leadership, Rashid said former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia is globally recognised as an "uncompromising leader" because she never bowed to injustice.

He also said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman directly supervises public health, cleanliness and public welfare initiatives nationwide and takes swift action against negligence.

He urged party workers to draw inspiration from such leadership.

Special guests Mostak Ahmed, Administrator of Comilla District Council, and Yusuf Molla Tipu, Administrator of Comilla City Corporation, also addressed the discussion.

Rezaul Kaiyum, President of Adarsha Sadar Upazila BNP, presided over the programme.

Leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, as well as people from various walks of life, attended the event.