‘Ziaur Rahman first declared revolt against Pakistan’
Mymensingh Correspondent :
Syed Emran Saleh Prince, Joint Secretary General of the BNP and candidate for Mymensingh-1, said that after the brutal crackdown by the Pakistani army on March 25, 1971, it was then-Major Ziaur Rahman who first declared the revolt against Pakistan while standing on a drum at the Chittagong Cantonment gate, proclaiming, “We revolt.”
He made these remarks while delivering his speech as the chief guest at a courtyard meeting held today in Hapania village of Haluaghat Upazila, Mymensingh.
Emran Saleh Prince stated that the history of independence is being deliberately distorted today. Those who opposed independence in 1971 and supported the Razakars and Al-Badr today are creating new narratives to claim themselves as the proclaimers of independence. This is extremely regrettable and dangerous for the nation.
He added that Bangladesh’s independence does not belong to any individual or group alone. It is BNP’s responsibility to present the true history of the Liberation War to the people.
Without the courageous declaration and leadership of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, organizing the Liberation War would not have been possible. This truth will remain unblemished in the pages of history forever.
He further stated that this election is not merely a contest for a parliamentary seat. It is a struggle between truth and falsehood, a fight to preserve history, and a fight to restore democracy.
Voting for the “Dhaneer Sheesh” symbol means voting in the spirit of Shaheed Ziaur Rahman, voting for democracy, and restoring people’s right to vote, along with pledging to change the fate of the people and develop the area.
He also said that the people desire change today. During years of misrule, citizens were unable to vote, speak freely, or enjoy their legitimate rights. In this election, the people do not want to be deceived again. Through their votes, they will hold those who distort history accountable.
In an emotional address at the courtyard meeting, he pledged, “If the people elect me and send me to Parliament, I will remain uncompromising in securing the rights, dignity, and legitimate demands of the people in this area. I will never compromise with injustice, corruption, or misrule. This is my promise.”
The meeting was presided over by local prominent Abdul Qadir. Among others, Upazila BNP Joint Convener and former Union Chairman Abdul Hai, Monayem Hossain Khan Khokon, Amtoil Union Chairman Shafiqur Rahman, Bir Muktijoddha Abdul Hamid, and General Secretary of Mymensingh South District Krishak Dal Nazim Uddin spoke at the event.
Local BNP leaders, activists, and people from various walks of life attended the courtyard meeting.