President Pays Homage to Ziaur Rahman, Recalls His Visionary Leadership

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has issued a profound message on the occasion of the 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman on Saturday, paying his deepest respect to the late leader's immortal memory. 

Commemorating the vast historical weight of the day, the President stated, “On this solemn day, I respectfully and gratefully remember the outstanding contributions of this heroic commander of the Liberation War, proclaimer of independence, pioneer of multi-party democracy, architect of modern Bangladesh, and visionary statesman.” 

Shahabuddin emphasized that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman remains an unforgettable name in the history of Bangladesh’s independence, sovereignty, and democratic progress.

Reflecting on the monumental dawn of the nation, the President noted that in the early hours of March 26, 1971, this brave soldier called upon the nation to engage in armed resistance against the Pakistani occupation forces. 

He added: “His call and declaration of independence showed a path of hope to a bewildered nation and inspired people from all walks of life to unite and actively participate in the Liberation War. In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, military strategy, and contribution to the war, he was awarded the title of ‘Bir Uttam’.”

The President went on to analyze the severe domestic crises that followed the war, stating that after independence, political instability, the curtailment of civil liberties and freedom of speech, widespread anarchy, corruption, and looting brought the state structure close to collapse. 

Describing the transition of leadership, Shahabuddin noted, “At such a critical moment, against the backdrop of the joint revolution of soldiers and people, the responsibility of leading the country was entrusted to him. During various difficult periods in the nation’s history, he played the role of a saviour and rescuer. His unique contribution and successful leadership will continue to guide future generations.”

President Shahabuddin underscored the political and social reforms initiated under the statesman's rule, asserting that upon assuming responsibility for state affairs, this wise leader established multi-party democracy and ensured freedom of speech, expression, and the press. 

He added, “Regardless of religion, ethnicity, or whether people lived in the hills or plains, he united the entire nation under the spirit of Bangladeshi nationalism.”

Turning to socio-economic progress, the Head of State explained that for domestic development, boosting investment and exports, attaining self-reliance and fostering direct improvements in living standards, Ziaur Rahman successfully introduced multifaceted plans and groundbreaking national programmes. 

He observed, “His 19-point programme served as a blueprint for building a productive and self-reliant Bangladesh.” 

Through vital public initiatives in agricultural development, mass canal excavation, increased food production, family planning, village government, comprehensive rural development, and mass education, the President noted that Ziaur Rahman effectively brought the general populace into the mainstream of national development, adding that his contributions to youth development, women’s empowerment, child welfare, and the promotion of education and culture remain unforgettable.

To systematically uphold Bangladesh’s geopolitical interests on the international stage, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman adopted a highly balanced foreign policy, the President said, highlighting that he established dignified, friendly, and cooperative relations with the Muslim world, Southeast Asia, China, and Western countries. 

Shahabuddin specifically credited the late President with being the first to institutionalise access for Bangladeshi workers to foreign labour markets in the Middle East and other regions, noting: “As a result of his far-sighted initiatives, remittances sent by expatriates have become one of the principal driving forces of the national economy. It was also through his active efforts that the path was paved for the eventual establishment of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).”

The President pointed out that Ziaur Rahman had only a remarkably short time to lead the country, yet within that brief period, the patriotism, integrity, dedication, and vision with which he advanced the nation remain a shining example to this day. 

Concluding his message, the President expressed his firm belief that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s simple and selfless life, strong personality, unquestionable honesty, and image as a pragmatic and energetic statesman will remain forever alive in the hearts of the people. 

He stated, “I hope that his active life, profound love for the country, firm stance against corruption, commitment to justice and fairness, vision of self-reliant development, and ideals will continue to inspire future generations.” 

The President also offered prayers to Almighty Allah to grant Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman the highest place in Jannatul Ferdous.