Zia’s 36th death anniversary today

The BNP and its front organizations are observing the 36th death anniversary of Ziaur Rahman on Tuesday, with the 1981 killing of the president in a military putsch at Chittagong Circuit House in memory.

The BNP has chalked out a 15-day programme on this occasion that will end on June 10.

In observance of the day, BNP hoists party flags half-mast at its central office at Nayapaltan in the capital and the offices of district, city and other units.

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.

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."

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.