Ziaur Rahman Established Multi-Party Democracy in a Democracy-Deprived Society: Environment Minister

Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister and Vice Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Abdul Awal Mintoo, has said that late President Ziaur Rahman played an unparalleled role in establishing multi-party democracy in a society where democratic practices were absent.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organized by the Sonagazi Upazila and Municipal BNP to mark the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the minister said Ziaur Rahman was not only the proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence but also a freedom fighter who actively participated in the Liberation War and later guided the country toward development and progress.

“Ziaur Rahman was the architect of Bangladesh’s development. His contributions to the nation are immeasurable,” Mintoo said.

The minister noted that after the brutal assassination of Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia took up the responsibility of leading the country’s development efforts. He added that after her tenure, the people once again entrusted BNP with the responsibility of governing the nation.

“Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working tirelessly to move the country forward on the path of development, following the ideals and vision of his parents,” he said.

Calling on BNP leaders and activists to remain united for the country’s development and progress, Mintoo said that competition within a large political party like BNP is natural, but it should never turn into hostility.

He also stated that he is actively working to address various local issues and assured that problems would be resolved gradually based on priority.

Addressing concerns over drug abuse and juvenile gangs, the minister said the problem has become a nationwide challenge. He blamed previous administrations for contributing to social degradation and stressed that parents, teachers, and community leaders must play a stronger role in addressing the issue.

Mintoo further highlighted the government's initiative, “Notun Kuri Sports,” aimed at encouraging young people to engage in sports and cultural activities. He said the program would contribute to the physical and psychological development of children and adolescents.

The discussion meeting, held at the Sonagazi Municipal Auditorium, was presided over by Upazila BNP Convener Zainal Abedin Babul and moderated by Member Secretary Syed Alam Bhuiyan.

Among others, District BNP Convener Sheikh Farid Bahar, Member Secretary Alal Uddin Alal, District Krishak Dal General Secretary Shamsuddin Khokon, District Mohila Dal Senior Vice President Jannatul Ferdous Mita, District Chhatra Dal President Salah Uddin Mamun, Upazila Jubo Dal Convener Khurshid Alam Bhuiyan, Nawabpur Union Parishad Chairman Zahirul Alam Zahir, and Upazila Swechchhasebak Dal President ABS Maruf also addressed the gathering.

The event concluded with a special prayer led by Shahjalal Khurshid, President of the Olama Dal. Clothes were later distributed among the underprivileged and destitute people.