BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said their party has taken a renewed pledge to rebuild the country’s economy and work towards establishing a liberal democratic Bangladesh by implementing the ideals of its founder, martyred President Ziaur Rahman.

He made the statement on Monday after paying tribute at Ziaur Rahman’s grave on the occasion of his 90th birth anniversary.

Leaders and activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party gathered at the grave from early morning to mark the anniversary. Around 11:00 am, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir arrived at the site along with senior party leaders. They placed floral wreaths at the grave and later participated in prayers and munajat.

Speaking to journalists, the BNP secretary general described Ziaur Rahman as the proclaimer of independence, a proponent of multi-party democracy and a key figure in shaping modern Bangladesh. He said the party had renewed its commitment to building a liberal democratic state.

Referring to the upcoming national election, Mirza Fakhrul said the election had been scheduled for 12 February. 

He stated that following the mass uprising that led to the fall of what he described as a fascist regime, the BNP had pledged to rebuild the damaged economy and implement the ideals of Shaheed Zia to establish a democratic Bangladesh.

Responding to a question, Mirza Fakhrul expressed confidence in the Election Commission’s ability to conduct a successful election. 

He acknowledged that issues often arise during the scrutiny of nomination papers but said the party expects the commission to continue performing its duties responsibly through to the completion of the election.