DHAKA, Mar 27 (V7N) – Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman addressed the nation today, describing the Liberation War as the most glorious chapter in Bangladesh's history while urging a balanced perspective on the past to ensure a prosperous future. Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organized by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the Engineers Institution auditorium, the Prime Minister marked the Great Independence and National Day with a call for national unity and self-reliance.

Honoring the Proclaimer and National Leaders

At the outset of his speech, the head of government paid deep respect to the proclaimer of independence, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, and expressed his gratitude to all national leaders who contributed to the 1971 struggle.

  • The "Birth of a Nation": The Prime Minister highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s long-cherished dream of a sovereign state, citing his seminal article "Birth of a Nation" as definitive evidence of his visionary role.

  • Historical Integrity: He argued that past attempts to belittle Ziaur Rahman only reinforced his "indispensable character" in the nation's founding. "There is no opportunity to hide the impeccable role of Shaheed Zia in the Liberation War," he asserted.

Focus on the Future and Quality of Life

In a notable shift toward forward-looking governance, the Prime Minister cautioned against becoming stagnant in historical debates.

"The past should not be forgotten, but excessive discussion of the past can hinder the future. Our focus must now be on the aspirations of the living."

He outlined his administration's commitment to inclusive development:

  • Universal Progress: He emphasized that the pledge of Independence Day should be to improve the quality of life for all classes and professions, rather than just a privileged section of society.

  • Resource Management: Reminding the citizens that "aspirations are unlimited but resources have limitations," he called for disciplined and unified efforts to build a self-reliant Bangladesh.

A Call for Unity Amid Global Challenges

The Prime Minister’s speech comes at a time when Bangladesh is navigating a significant global energy crisis and domestic economic reconstruction. By emphasizing unity, he signaled that the government's priority is stabilizing the economy and ensuring that the "fruits of independence" reach every household.

The event was attended by the full senior leadership of the BNP, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, and Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, all of whom reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the "true history" of 1971 while tackling the modern challenges of 2026.

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