Democracy still obstructed at every step, says Khaleda Zia

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has said that democracy in Bangladesh “is still being obstructed at every step,” and called for its restoration. She stated that the architect of democracy, independence, press freedom, judicial independence, self-reliance, development, and the creation of a unique sense of nationalism in this country was Shaheed Zia.

She made these remarks while virtually joining a discussion as the chief guest on Thursday (May 29) at Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) auditorium in Dhaka’s Ramna area.

The event was organized to mark the 44th death anniversary of BNP founder and former President Ziaur Rahman.

Khaleda Zia said, “The democracy for which he sacrificed his life, and the fight for sovereignty, are still being obstructed at every step. Very soon, we will see Bangladesh re-established as a democratic country. Let this be our pledge on the martyrdom anniversary of Zia.”

The BNP Chairperson said, “Every year, this day in May returns to our family as a sorrowful memory. On this day, not only our family but the entire country was overwhelmed with grief and felt orphaned. Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman is a name inseparably connected to our beloved motherland, Bangladesh. He declared the country’s independence from Chattogram, and through that act, he tied his name forever with the nation. It was in that same Chattogram that he sacrificed his life as a successful, honest, visionary, and truly patriotic President.”

She further said, “To establish democracy and move forward in an orderly manner, I call upon all BNP leaders, activists, and the people of the country. Remember, the politics of democracy and development for all, which was left behind by Shaheed Zia, must be implemented to show proper respect to him.”