The political history of a nation is not merely a chronicle of power transitions; it is also a record of aspirations, crises, and possibilities. One such pivotal chapter in Bangladesh’s history unfolded on 1 September 1978—the day that witnessed the democratic rehabilitation of the country and the birth of a new political current. The establishment of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was not merely the formation of another political organisation; it was the outcome of a profound political and historical necessity.
After the upheavals of 1975 and the collapse of one-party rule, the nation was plunged into a political vacuum. At that critical juncture, the demand for the restoration of democracy and for an alternative political current grew urgent. Alongside the Awami League, which had led the independence struggle, there was a glaring absence of a strong and organised alternative. Veteran leaders such as Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani remained active, but to fill the void there was a pressing need for a well-organised, ideologically coherent and inclusive political platform. The BNP emerged to meet that demand.
Its founder, the martyred President Ziaur Rahman, articulated the theory of Bangladeshi Nationalism—a philosophy that provided a timely foundation for the nation’s search for self-identity as a sovereign state. This concept was inclusive: while respecting Bengali nationalism and secularism, it also acknowledged the religious values of the Muslim majority and upheld equal rights for all citizens. On this basis, Zia did not simply establish a political party; he presented a comprehensive state philosophy rooted in Bangladeshi Nationalism.
Thus, the BNP was born as a political stage for the equal participation of the Muslim majority as well as minority communities.
From proclaimer of independence to statesman
When the Pakistan Army launched its genocide on 25 March 1971, Major Ziaur Rahman made a historic declaration of independence from Kalurghat Radio Station in Chattogram. This announcement introduced him to the masses and earned him recognition as a military leader in the Liberation War. He went on to command the Z Force as a brigade commander during the nine-month war.
After independence, Zia distinguished himself as a skilled military officer. In November 1975, the sepoy-people’s uprising propelled him to national leadership. His calm message—“I am Major General Zia... have patience”—helped restore public confidence during that crisis.
Assuming state power, Zia prioritised the restructuring of civil-military relations and restoring order. He increased the defence budget, formed new divisions, and strengthened police and intelligence operations. Yet, his most significant step was the reintroduction of multi-party democracy. Breaking free from one-party rule, he legitimised the formation of political parties. With the promulgation of the Political Parties Regulation in 1976, the Awami League, leftists, and rightists alike were able to reorganise.
The BNP and its democratic basis
It was in this context that the BNP was founded. To establish it as a leading force in multi-party politics, Zia announced a 19-point programme. He travelled across the country, addressing more than 70 rallies, and introduced democratic processes into local government. Union Parishad and municipal elections opened a new horizon for the people’s right to vote.
On 3 June 1978, presidential elections were held with the participation of multiple political parties. This election is considered one of the milestones in laying the foundation of Bangladesh’s multi-party democracy.
Zia’s foreign policy was pragmatic. By reducing hostility and improving ties with India, deepening relations with China and the West, and strengthening links with the Muslim world, he elevated Bangladesh’s international position. He was particularly resolute in fostering unity within the Muslim world.
Zia initiated a process of liberalisation in the economy. He took reformist measures in education, health, agriculture, industry, literature, culture, and sports. His tenure brought renewed dynamism to the country’s development activities.
The fifth amendment of the constitution
In 1979, the Fifth Amendment was passed in the National Parliament, giving constitutional legitimacy to all laws enacted between 15 August 1975 and 6 April 1979. This amendment also introduced significant changes to the fundamental principles of the state. “Absolute trust and faith in the Almighty Allah” was added in place of “secularism.” Nationalism was redefined as “Bangladeshi Nationalism.” This gave a new dimension to national identity in a pluralistic society, while fraternal relations with the Muslim world were formally included in the constitution.
A leader of rare stature and his legacy
On 30 May 1981, President Ziaur Rahman was assassinated at the Chattogram Circuit House. In just four and a half years, he had laid political, economic, and diplomatic foundations that remain relevant even today. His legacy was carried forward by Begum Khaleda Zia, who led the country as Prime Minister multiple times. At present, Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has declared the vision of building Bangladesh as a humane welfare state through his 31-point programme.
Present crisis and future prospects
The BNP’s journey has never been smooth. The military-backed caretaker government of 2007 dealt it a heavy blow. The controversies surrounding the 2014 and 2018 elections, the repression of its leadership, and the imprisonment of Chairperson Khaleda Zia weakened its political standing.
Yet, the mass uprising of 2024 and sustained movements since then have shown that the BNP remains at the centre of public expectation as an alternative force. In particular, its movement for a neutral government during elections has highlighted its continued relevance in the struggle for democracy.
The party now faces significant challenges: reconnecting with the new generation, transforming mass movements into electoral strength, and aligning its political programmes with the country’s economic and social needs. If Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman succeeds in these endeavours, the BNP can once again emerge as the central and enduring force in national politics, standing firmly on the foundation laid by Ziaur Rahman.
In the political history of Bangladesh, the BNP is not just the name of a party; it is a symbol of an alternative vision for the state and a beacon of democracy. From the proclamation of independence to the 1990 mass movement, from the demand for a caretaker government during elections to the recent mass uprising—the BNP has played a leading role.
Born of the soil of Bangladesh, the BNP is therefore not only a political necessity but also a historical legacy. The foundations laid by President Ziaur Rahman and his political inheritance remain indispensable to Bangladesh’s democracy, statecraft, and future politics.
The writer is a political analyst and cultural activist
