The historic Independence Day is a glorious day in our national life. We achieved our independence through nine-month long armed struggle and immense sacrifices of lives. On this solemn day, I recall with utmost respect and pay my deep homage to the martyrs of the liberation war who made supreme sacrifices for achieving the independence in 1971. I pray for the salvation of those immortal souls.
On this memorable day, I remember with profound respect the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who proclaimed country’s Independence on March 26, 1971. Responding to his clarion call people from all walks of life participated in the war of liberation and snatched the independence. I also recall with deep respect the Four National Leaders; valiant freedom-fighters and organizers who rendered their dedicated efforts and enthusiastic support that accelerated our great victory. I also remember Sher-e-Bangla A. K. Fazlul Haque, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Moulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani for their immense contributions toward inspiring our people at various stages of struggle.
One of the prime objectives of our hard-earned independence was to build a happy and prosperous Bangladesh. Keeping that in mind, the government has been rendering untiring efforts in materializing the objectives of independence. With the span of time, we have achieved some significant progresses both at national and international arena. Despite attaining the progress, we have to go a long way for achieving the cherished goals of independence. I believe concerted efforts from all are imperative in this regard.
It is a matter of satisfaction that the people of our country are democracy-loving. Without institutionalization of democracy, the overall development is not possible to attain. Tolerance, fortitude and respect for others’ opinions are the pre-conditions for democracy to prosper. Therefore, we must have to maintain patience, forbearance at all levels and to be respectful to other’s views in a democratic pluralism. Let us make our National Parliament as a center of excellence in solving our national issues and a place of discussion. I am confident, all, irrespective of party affiliation would play responsible role in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of our common people.
On this great Independence Day, I urge all, living in the country and abroad, to work unitedly imbued with the sprit of war of liberation to expedite economic self-reliance and democratic advancement as we are committed to build a respectful, happy and prosperous Bangladesh for our next generation.
May the Almighty be with us.
Khoda hafez, May Bangladesh live forever.
