History of BNP & The UK Chapter
A journey of nationalism, democracy, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between Bangladesh and its diaspora.
The Heritage of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party was born out of the necessity to unite a divided nation following the Liberation War of 1971. Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman—who proclaimed the independence of Bangladesh in March 1971—established BNP on the foundations of Bangladeshi nationalism, social justice, and free enterprise.
Founding of Bangladesh Nationalist Party
On 1 September 1978, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman founded the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to unify nationalist forces, restore multi-party democracy, and spearhead rapid socio-economic transformation.
Restoration of Multi-Party Parliamentary Democracy
BNP secured a decisive mandate in national parliamentary elections, repealing one-party governance and reviving press freedom, judicial independence, and democratic pluralism.
Martyrdom of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman
On 30 May 1981, President Ziaur Rahman was tragically assassinated in Chittagong. Millions of citizens mourned his demise, cementing his enduring status as a national hero and visionary leader.
Begum Khaleda Zia Assumes Party Leadership
Begum Khaleda Zia was elected Chairperson of BNP, leading the historic nine-year democratic movement against military dictatorship that culminated in the restoration of parliamentary democracy in 1990.
Establishment of BNP UK Chapter & First Democratic Government
Following BNP’s historic electoral triumph in Bangladesh leading to Begum Khaleda Zia becoming the first female Prime Minister, the BNP UK Chapter was formally established in London to coordinate diaspora support.
Tarique Rahman Takes Over as Acting Chairman
Mr. Tarique Rahman assumed the role of Acting Chairman, spearheading the nationwide struggle for human rights, democratic restoration, and digital diaspora mobilization.