Bangladesh is observing the 90th birth anniversary of former president Ziaur Rahman, a central figure in the country’s political history, a senior military commander during the Liberation War and the founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Ziaur Rahman, who is credited by supporters with introducing multi-party democracy in Bangladesh, was born on January 19, 1936, in Bogura district. His role during the 1971 war and his later leadership continue to shape political discourse decades after his assassination in 1981.
The anniversary is being marked with programmes organised by BNP and its affiliated bodies across the country, including tributes at his mausoleum in Dhaka, prayer gatherings and discussion meetings reflecting on his political and historical legacy.
As part of the commemorations, the Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh is organising a free medical camp, while a discussion programme will be held on January 20 at the Institution of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh auditorium in Kakrail. Similar discussion meetings and prayer gatherings are being organised by BNP and its affiliated bodies at district, metropolitan, upazila and thana levels nationwide. Several national newspapers have also published special supplements marking the occasion.
Ziaur Rahman is remembered for his role during Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971, when he served as a commander of Sector 1 and later led the Z Force. His radio announcement declaring the country’s independence is widely regarded as one of the defining moments of the war. In recognition of his bravery, he was awarded the gallantry title Bir Uttam.
After a period of political turmoil following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in August 1975, Ziaur Rahman emerged as a central figure in national politics. He assumed state power following the November 7 uprising later that year and went on to found the Bangladesh Nationalist Party on September 1, 1978.
As president, Ziaur Rahman introduced a multi-party-political system, ending the one-party BAKSAL structure, and is credited by his supporters with restoring press freedom and reviving democratic institutions. He formally assumed the presidency in April 1977 and was elected president in June 1978.
Ziaur Rahman was assassinated on May 30, 1981, during an abortive military coup, bringing an abrupt end to his political career. Decades after his death, he remains a significant and influential figure in Bangladesh’s political discourse, with supporters citing his leadership, nationalism and role in shaping the country’s political trajectory.
