Chairman of the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), Engineer Belayet Hossain, has said that former President Ziaur Rahman was a pioneer of multi-party democracy and a visionary architect of modern Bangladesh whose patriotism, integrity and nationalist philosophy continue to inspire the nation.
He made the remarks on Friday morning after paying tribute at the first grave of late President Ziaur Rahman in Rangunia, Chattogram. Accompanied by a large number of political leaders, activists, and local dignitaries, Belayet Hossain placed floral wreaths at the site and offered prayers seeking eternal peace for the departed leader.
Following the tribute, the CDA chairman visited the grave of Maksudul Karim Chowdhury, Senior Joint Convener of Rangunia Upazila Jubo Dal, who was recently murdered. He also met with the victim’s family members and expressed his condolences.
Speaking on the occasion, Belayet Hossain described Rangunia as a historically significant place closely associated with the memories of Ziaur Rahman.
He said the ideals of the former president would continue to guide efforts toward building a prosperous, democratic, and discrimination-free Bangladesh.
The CDA chairman also referred to the struggles faced by BNP leaders and activists over the past 17 years, claiming that many had been subjected to political persecution, harassment, and imprisonment. He said Ziaur Rahman’s ideals had inspired party members to remain committed to democratic movements.
Belayet Hossain expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for appointing him as CDA chairman and pledged to transform Chattogram into a planned, modern, and livable city. He reiterated his commitment to implementing a zero-tolerance policy against corruption within the organization.
“Anyone found involved in corruption will face strict action. There will be no compromise when it comes to protecting the interests of the city and the CDA. Development projects must maintain quality standards, and public interest will always come first,” he said.
He also warned against illegal occupation of public land and vowed to take firm action against encroachers.
Among those present were Municipal BNP Member Secretary Abdus Salam, Joint Convener Md. Sadeq, North District Swechchhasebak Dal Convener Sarwar Uddin Selim, Senior Joint Convener Nurul Islam Babul, Joint Conveners Yusuf Talukdar, Jasim Chowdhury and Shawon Uddin Rocky, North District Jubo Dal Assistant General Secretary M. Masud Alam, along with leaders and activists from BNP and its affiliated organizations.
The participants reaffirmed their commitment to working for the welfare of the country and its people, inspired by the ideals of former President Ziaur Rahman.