AL leaders trying to undermine Zia

The ruling Awami League leaders are trying to undermine BNP founder Ziaur Rahman's contributions to the independence of Bangladesh, alleged the BNP yesterday.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, secretary general of the BNP, said Ziaur Rahman announced the independence of the country and participated in the Liberation War but the ruling party leaders were trying to undermine his contributions nowadays.

"They [Awami League leaders] established Baksal in 1975 and the same way they politicised the whole state today," he said.

Addressing a virtual discussion, the BNP leader said the nation was passing a hard time as spirit of democracy was destroyed in the country.

"The ruling party has established fascism in the country destroying the spirit of the Liberation War," he added.

He also said that people of all walks of life would have to play a role to over this situation and restore democracy.

Fakhrul remembered the role of Arafat Rahman Koko, younger son of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia who died few years ago, in sports sector during the discussion.

"Koko was not involved in politics but dedicated his life to sports. The base of today's success in cricket was established by Koko," he added.

The BNP leader also proposed formation of Arafat Rahman Koko Foundation to promote sports.

The virtual discussion was organised to mark 51st birth anniversary of Koko.