Zia established multi-party democracy: Mintoo

"Ziaur Rahman not only declared the country's independence but also fought in the Liberation War and played a significant role in securing Bangladesh's freedom," he told a discussion at the Sonagazi Municipal Auditorium here.

Sonagazi Upazila and Municipal BNP organized the marking the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Ziaur Rahman, with Upazila BNP Convener Zainal Abedin Bablu in the chair.

Mintoo said Ziaur Rahman guided the nation towards development and was the architect of its progress. "His contributions to the nation are beyond measure," he added.

Referring to the period following Ziaur Rahman's assassination, Mintoo said BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia assumed the party's leadership and later served as prime minister, contributing significantly to the country's development.

The people, he said, subsequently entrusted the BNP with the responsibility of governing the country once again.

Mentioning Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Mintoo said he is carrying forward the legacy of his parents and working to advance the nation.

Calling on party leaders and activists to remain united in the greater interest of the country, he said that while competition within the BNP is natural as the country's largest political party, it should not evolve into hostility.

Addressing the issues of drug abuse and juvenile gangs, the minister said the problems have spread across the country. He alleged that the previous government had contributed to the moral degradation of society in various ways.

He said that alongside parents, teachers and community leaders must play a proactive role in addressing these social challenges.

The Minister also said the government has launched the "Notun Kuri Sports" programme to encourage young people to engage in sports and cultural activities.

"Through this initiative, children and adolescents will benefit both psychologically and physically," he said.

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, among others, addressed the programme.

Upazila BNP Member Secretary Syed Alam Bhuiyan moderated the discussion.
A munajat was offered seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman.

Later, clothes were distributed among underprivileged and destitute people, reports BSS.