Staff Reporter:
Fisheries, Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid on Saturday said that the late President Ziaur Rahman led the nation from the front during every crisis and stood firmly by the people until his last breath.
The minister was speaking as the chief guest at a discussion and prayer mahfil organised by the Cumilla South District and Metropolitan BNP at the Shilpakala Academy in Cumilla metropolis.
The event marks the 45th martyrdom anniversary of the late President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of independence and proponent of multi-party democracy.
Minister Rashid highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s historic and pivotal role in establishing democracy in the country. “His ideology, honesty, sense of responsibility, and people-centric politics remain exemplary for the nation today,” the minister said.
He urged party leaders and activists to reflect the ideals and values of the late President through their discipline, public engagement, and welfare-driven activities to meet the expectations of the masses.
The minister noted that the public has entrusted the BNP government with the responsibility of running a transparent, accountable, and welfare-oriented state. To fulfill this mandate, political workers must behave responsibly, practice restraint, and remain accountable to the public.
Expressing concern over social degradation, the minister said that a vested group is active in fueling drug abuse, juvenile delinquency, and social unrest.
He called for coordinated efforts among political leadership, local administration, and social organisations to prevent the youth from going astray.
He also proposed forming support committees at the metropolitan, district, upazila, and union levels to monitor law and order and assist local administrations.
The minister issued a stern warning against misusing the names of the government or the party for any unethical activities. “The people have voted for this government to power with immense trust and hope. We must ensure that no action is taken that compromises the integrity or image of the government or the party,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of his portfolios, the minister emphasised that agriculture and livestock sectors are directly linked to the country’s economy, food security, and livelihood.
He reiterated his commitment to selflessly serving the nation and sought prayers from everyone to discharge his duties with honesty and transparency.
Paying tribute to party leadership, the minister remarked that former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia is globally recognised as an “uncompromising leader” because she never bowed down to injustice.
He also noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to directly supervise public health, cleanliness, and public welfare initiatives across the country, taking swift action against any negligence.
He urged party workers to draw inspiration from this proactive leadership.
The discussion was also addressed by special guests Mostak Ahmed, Administrator of Cumilla District Council, and Yusuf Molla Tipu, Administrator of Cumilla City Corporation. Rezaul Kaiyum, President of Adarsha Sadar Upazila BNP, presided over the program, which was attended by leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies, alongside people from various walks of life.
