Democracy still obstructed at every step, says Khaleda Zia

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has said that democracy in Bangladesh “is still being obstructed at every step,” and called for its restoration.

Speaking virtually at an event marking the death anniversary of former President Ziaur Rahman on Thursday, she described him as “the unique architect of democracy, independence, press freedom, judicial autonomy, self-reliance, development, and a distinct nationalism.”

“The uninterrupted journey of that democracy – for which he sacrificed his life – is still being obstructed at every step,” said Ms Khaleda, who served twice as the country’s prime minister.

Also the country’s first female head of government, she expressed hope for change, saying, “Very soon, we will see Bangladesh re-established in democracy. Let this be our pledge on Zia’s martyrdom anniversary.”

In her remarks, reflecting on the national and personal pain associated with Zia’s death, the widow of the slain president said it brings “painful memories” to her family and the nation. “On this day, the entire country became grief-stricken and leaderless.”

“Martyred President Ziaur Rahman is a name inseparably tied with our beloved motherland,” she added. “Declaring independence from Chittagong, he made his name inseparable from the country. In that very Chittagong, he sacrificed his life as a successful, honest, farsighted, and true patriot president.”

The octogenarian politician urged her party leaders and citizens to continue efforts to restore democracy in a disciplined manner. “We must honour martyred Zia by implementing the politics he left behind – democracy and development for all,” she said.