Ziaur Rahman was the proclaimer of independence: President

President Md Sahabuddin has stated that the proclaimer of independence was Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman. He said the foundation he laid for women's political and economic empowerment was later further strengthened and made timely by BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

He made these remarks as the chief guest at an event organised at the capital's Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Sunday, March 8, marking International Women's Day.

The President recalled with deep respect all those martyred from the 1971 Liberation War to the 2024 movement. He said the martyrs' dream was to build a discrimination-free and justice-based Bangladesh. Achieving that goal is the true way to honour their sacrifice.

He informed that emphasising women's political and economic empowerment, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman established the first Women's Affairs Department in the President's Secretariat in 1976. Later, the Ministry of Women Affairs was formed in 1978. Subsequently, during Begum Khaleda Zia's time, it was expanded and transformed into the current Ministry of Women and Children Affairs.

The President also informed that the government is going to launch the 'Family Card' programme aimed at empowering economically disadvantaged women. He said this programme will begin from March 10 and will help families achieve economic self-reliance.

The President called for effective roles from the government and all concerned to ensure women's rights and justice. He also emphasised ensuring women's safety both at home and outside.

The President stated that nearly 16 per cent of the country's Gross Domestic Product comes from household work. Women's contribution is extremely important in various sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture, industry and literature, factories and construction.

At the event, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was awarded the 'Best Unstoppable Woman in the March of Democracy' honour on the occasion of International Women's Day. The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs conferred this honour upon her. Her granddaughter Barrister Zaima Rahman received the award on Khaleda Zia's behalf.

This honour was given in recognition of her uncompromising struggle for the restoration of democracy and her contribution to establishing democratic traditions. This year, a total of five women were honoured as 'Best Unstoppable Women' in five categories for their contributions in various fields.