Zia’s 35th death anniv today

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.