Zia's death anniversary today

The BNP will observe the 36th death anniversary of late president and founder of the party Ziaur Rahman through various programmes.

The party flag will be hoisted at half-mast at its Nayapaltan central office and all other party offices across the country today.

Leaders and activists of the BNP, including party Chairperson Khaleda Zia, will offer special prayers and place wreaths at the grave of Zia at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital this morning.

Doctors' Association of Bangladesh (DAB) will arrange a free medical camp at BNP's Nayapaltan office, while Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal will arrange a photo exhibition at the National Press Club on May 30.

Khaleda will also distribute food among the poor at different places in the capital.

The party and its associate bodies have planned a 15-day programme to mark the anniversary that will end on June 10.

In a press release yesterday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said “This illegitimate government is governing the country under one-party rule. They are reinstating old Baksal in a new style. They are killing democracy by suppressing rights of the opposition and freedom of expression."

“In such a situation, all democracy loving people should be united under the leadership of Khaleda Zia to restore multiparty democracy in the country,” he said.

On this day in 1981, Zia was assassinated by a group of disgruntled army officers at Chittagong Circuit House.

Born on January 19, 1936, at Bagbari of Bogra, Zia was a sector commander during the Liberation War.

He was awarded Bir Uttam, the highest gallantry award for a living officer for his wartime services.