On November 7, 1975, soldiers and civilians revolted jointly and freed the then army chief Major General Ziaur Rahman from captivity in Dhaka Cantonment.

The day has been declared a public holiday. All government, semi-government and autonomous institutions will remain closed on the occasion.

President Prof Dr Iajuddin Ahmed and Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia gave separate messages on the eve of the day.

The ruling BNP, founded by Ziaur Rahman, will observe the day in a befitting manner. It has arranged a discussion meeting at Mahanagar Natya Mancha in the capital.

Its front organisations and affiliated socio-cultural bodies have also chalked out elaborate programmes to celebrate the day. These include discussions, seminars, milad mahfil, Quran Khwani, video shows and cultural functions.

The national and party flags will be hoisted at offices and installations in the morning across the country.

Leaders and activists of the BNP and its front organisations, including President Iajuddin Ahmed and Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, will visit the grave of Ziaur Rahman to offer Fateha and place floral wreaths.