Ziaur Rahman's 45th death anniversary today

The 45th death anniversary of Ziaur Rahman, founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former President of Bangladesh, is being observed today (May 30) with nationwide programmes organised by the party and its affiliated bodies.

Ziaur Rahman was killed on May 30, 1981, in Chattogram’s Circuit House during an attempted military uprising. Since then, BNP has commemorated the day annually as his death anniversary.

To mark the occasion, the party has undertaken an eight-day programme running from May 25 to June 1, featuring discussions, prayers, charity activities and tributes across the country.

Born on January 19, 1936, in Bagbari of Gabtoli, Bogura, Ziaur Rahman joined the military after completing his education and was commissioned as an officer in 1955. During Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971, he emerged as one of the prominent military commanders and was later awarded the title of Bir Uttam for his contribution to the country's independence struggle.

Following the political upheaval that followed the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, Ziaur Rahman rose to national leadership and later founded BNP, becoming one of the most influential political figures in Bangladesh's modern history.

As part of Saturday’s observance, BNP hoisted black flags and lowered party flags at half-mast at its Nayapaltan central office and party units nationwide.

The party's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with senior leaders and activists, is scheduled to pay tribute at Ziaur Rahman’s grave and participate in a special prayer programme seeking peace for his soul.

BNP has also arranged food and clothing distribution among underprivileged people in different parts of the capital, while discussion meetings and commemorative events will continue throughout the programme period.

The anniversary is being observed through tributes, publications, memorial posters and special features highlighting Ziaur Rahman’s political legacy and role in Bangladesh’s history.