Ziaur Rahman: A revolutionary leader who reformed Bangladesh
Today, as the nation reflects on its past and looks to its future, the figure of Ziaur Rahman looms large—a leader who, with unwavering dedication and integrity, changed the course of history
In the annals of history, Bangladesh's birth in 1971 is marked by unparalleled bravery. While the leadership of the Awami League fled or surrendered, a young military officer, Major Ziaur Rahman, took an extraordinary leap. Breaking his oath to Pakistan, he declared Bangladesh's independence, catalysing a movement that would forever reshape South Asia. His audacious leadership and selfless commitment, despite the personal risks to his family, laid the groundwork for an independent Bangladesh.
More than five decades later, "reform" is a buzzword in Bangladesh, a term often associated with the era of Ziaur Rahman. Following the departure of authoritarian regimes, many sought to reform state and governance systems. Yet, few remember that it was Zia who first initiated sweeping changes that revolutionised the nation's socio-political and economic fabric.
Emerging from the ashes of the one-party BAKSAL system, Zia's leadership was a breath of fresh air. He dismantled the one-party rule and reintroduced a multi-party democracy, ensuring freedom of speech and the press. Under his guidance, once-banned political entities like the Awami League and Jamaat-e-Islami were allowed to operate, fostering a vibrant political culture.
Zia's reforms extended beyond governance. He launched Notun Kuri, South Asia's first televised cultural talent competition for children, laying the groundwork for a thriving media culture. His vision was not just limited to fostering democracy but extended to creating platforms for artistic and cultural expression.
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In a nation grappling with famine and food scarcity in the mid-1970s, Zia spearheaded what came to be known as the Green Revolution. By 1980, Bangladesh, which once struggled to feed its 70 million citizens, was producing enough surplus to export rice to Nepal. Today, this legacy supports a population of over 180 million.
Zia recognised the potential of manpower exports to alleviate unemployment and bolster the economy. In 1976, his government facilitated the first large-scale migration of Bangladeshi workers to the Middle East, starting with 6,087 workers sent to Kuwait. This initiative laid the foundation for the remittance-based economy that remains a cornerstone of Bangladesh's financial stability.
Zia also invested in vocational training, establishing youth development centers and technical institutes. His emphasis on skill-building ensured that Bangladeshi workers were not only employed abroad but were also equipped with the technical expertise to thrive.
Decades before water scarcity became a global concern, Zia launched an ambitious canal digging project to enhance the use of surface water, countering India's growing control over regional water resources. His emphasis on sustainable water management was ahead of its time, aligning with modern environmental recommendations to reduce reliance on groundwater.
Zia's vision for energy independence led to the establishment of the Exploration Directorate under Petrobangla, which conducted seismic surveys that revealed vast reserves of oil and gas. Although technical limitations prevented full-scale exploitation during his presidency, Zia's groundwork remains pivotal in Bangladesh's ongoing quest for energy security.
As the first leader to compile a list of freedom fighters and document the war's history, Zia institutionalised recognition for those who fought for independence. He introduced the Independence Medal and Ekushey Medal, commemorating the sacrifices made during Bangladesh's liberation.
Under Zia's leadership, the ready-made garment (RMG) industry, now the lifeblood of Bangladesh's economy, began its rise. His policies facilitated the import of raw materials and machinery through back-to-back letters of credit, accelerating the industry's growth and securing Bangladesh's position in the global apparel market.
Zia's foreign policy reforms elevated Bangladesh's standing on the international stage. In 1979, Bangladesh secured a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a significant diplomatic achievement. His pragmatic approach to foreign relations ensured that Bangladesh maintained a balanced and independent stance in global affairs.
Ziaur Rahman's integrity remains uncontested, even by his political adversaries. His assassination in 1981 marked the end of an era, but his legacy endures. During a parliamentary session following his death, Awami League leader Suranjit Sengupta remarked on the unprecedented public outpouring at Zia's funeral, underscoring his profound connection with the masses.
Veteran politician Mawlana Bhashani, despite his critiques of other leaders, openly supported Zia. In a poignant exchange with Professor Abdul Gafur, Bhashani articulated why Zia commanded such respect: "Ziaur Rahman's personal integrity and impartiality are unparalleled. His leadership stands as a beacon of honesty in a region where such qualities are rare."
Zia's brief presidency—just over four years—left an indelible mark on Bangladesh's trajectory. His vision, reforms, and leadership transformed a fledgling nation into a rising power. As Bangladesh continues to evolve, Ziaur Rahman's legacy serves as a reminder of what visionary leadership can achieve.
A K M Wahiduzzaman is the ICT Secretary of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
