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DHAKA, Sept 14, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman today paid tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the establishment of democracy and extended greetings to all pro-democracy people worldwide on the occasion of International Democracy Day-2025.
In a message posted on his verified Facebook page, the BNP leader highlighted the importance of democracy as a universal value and a political system founded on the free expression of people's will, saying, "True democracy ensures full participation in all aspects of life - political, economic, social and cultural."
Then the BNP acting chairman mentioned the role of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia to restore multiparty democracy in the country.
He said, "Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the Proclaimer of Independence, has restored multiparty democracy after the aggressive grip of one-party Baksal rule. The core of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's timeless philosophy and Bangladeshi Nationalism was multiparty democracy."
He also praised Begum Khaleda Zia for advancing Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's vision, enduring repeated attacks from autocracies.
"Since the independence of Bangladesh, autocracy has repeatedly struck, leading to the banning of political parties and newspapers, the suppression of free expression, voter fraud, and the destruction of democratic institutions. A fearful and authoritarian environment was created by a power-hungry elite aiming to remain in power indefinitely," Tarique Rahman added.
He also criticized the Awami fascist government for what he described as its obstruction of democracy over the last decade and a half.
Citing this year's theme for International Democracy Day, "Achieving Gender Equality Action by Action," Tarique Rahman underscored that democracy guarantees equal opportunities and dignity for all genders, a fundamental human right. "In a democratic society, a strong environment for protest exists, which prevents the deepening of gender divisions and ensures a steady move towards equal rights."
Recalling the July uprising of students and the public which led to the downfall of a terrible autocracy, he urged everyone to work together to restore democracy in Bangladesh.
He concluded with the hope of building a Bangladesh that ensures prosperity and self-reliance for future generations, an inclusive and liberal political environment, and social stability and justice.
The day is an UN-designated observance aimed at raising awareness about the essence and strength of democracy among the global community.
