Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of BNP, has stated that even 53 years after the independence of Bangladesh, the people have not been able to enjoy the full benefits of freedom.
In his message on the occasion of the Independence Day, delivered on Tuesday, March 25, he reflected on the country's journey.
Tarique Rahman expressed, "Our Independence and National Day mark the dawn of a new era in our national history. The greatest achievement of this nation, born from centuries of struggle, is the independence of Bangladesh. On this day, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of Bangladesh, both at home and abroad."
He continued, "On this Independence Day, the first thought that comes to mind is the sacrifice of countless patriots who gave their lives for the country's freedom. On this solemn day, I pay my deepest respects to them. Their unforgettable sacrifices led to the liberation of our motherland. I also pay my respects to the memory of our founder, martyr President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, and all national leaders. The nation will never forget the contributions of those fearless freedom fighters who helped us achieve victory in the nine-month-long Liberation War. I also remember with great respect the mothers and sisters who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of our land."
Tarique Rahman further said, "Through the relentless struggle for self-determination and independence, the blood-soaked path of the Liberation War led to the emergence of our nation on the world map in 1971. On this day, it was President Ziaur Rahman, our greatest son, who declared Bangladesh's independence. His historic declaration gave a directionless nation the courage and resolve to join the liberation struggle. The people of this land fought for a Bangladesh free from exploitation, devoid of deprivation, and committed to building an equal and democratic society."
"Unfortunately, the forces against democracy have not stopped their conspiracies. Repeated fascist, autocratic, and illegal powers have thwarted our efforts to achieve these goals. Domestic and foreign conspiracies have hindered the growth of democracy and economic progress, endangering the country's sovereignty and independence."
He went on, ''After the conspiratorial assassination of the founding father of our independence, martyr President Ziaur Rahman, Bir Uttam, the undeterred leadership of Begum Khaleda Zia initiated the restoration of democracy. However, due to the enemies of democracy, it has not been possible to establish a lasting and strong democratic framework. The illegal government, aiming for one-party rule, has dismantled all the democratic institutions of the state. Yet, after the fall of fascism, there is now an opportunity to ensure the path of multiparty democracy through the united efforts of all patriotic political parties, organizations, and citizens, strengthening the country's sovereignty and independence. This is the essence of our independence.''
"On this momentous Independence and National Day, I call on everyone to unite in preserving the democratic spirit of the 1971 Liberation War, maintaining the democratic system of diverse views and paths. I also pray to Almighty Allah for the peace, prosperity, and well-being of the people of our nation," Tarique Rahman added.
