The 35th death anniversary of late President Ziaur Rahman, the founder of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is being observed on Monday.Zia came to limelight by broadcasting a declaration of independence on behalf of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding president of the country, in March 1971. On May 30, 1981, Zia was assassinated by a group of army rebels at Chittagong Circuit House. Zia founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party in 1978.Born on January 19, 1936 at Bagbari in Bogra, Zia was a sector commander during the 1971 Liberation War and later conferred Bir Uttam award, the highest gallantry award for a living officer for his wartime services.BNP, its associate bodies and different socio-cultural organisations are observing the day with various programmes across the country.