Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan said that ‘Zia Memorial Museum’, situated adjacent to Chittagong Circuit House, will undergo renovation to reopen for the people in a very short time.
This historical edifice, which has suffered neglect due to the ‘vengeful politics’ of the previous administration, will be restored to its original splendour, he said while talking to reporters following his visit to the museum around 11 am on Friday.
Currently, several rooms within the museum are vacant as they are being renovated. The modernization efforts aim to preserve the legacy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman along with various artefacts displayed there.
During the visit, State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Engineer Ishraq Hossain, Ershad Ullah MP for Chittagong-8 constituency, Deputy Commissioner of Chittagong Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah, Convener of South District BNP Idris Miah and senior officials from the ministry were present.
After the visit, Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan said that in the journey of Bangladesh, from Major Zia to President Zia, his contributions have significantly influenced and enriched the nation.
This museum has been established to honor the memory of President Ziaur Rahman. He noted that many rooms in the museum are presently unoccupied as they are undergoing renovation.
Following the renovation, the memorials and various artefacts dedicated to Ziaur Rahman will be preserved there. The minister also said that Ziaur Rahman significantly contributed to the country's economic development by declaring independence, aiding during the war, earning the title of Bir Uttam, and serving as the Chief of Army Staff and subsequently as a statesman.
However, subsequent administrations have attempted to diminish his contributions. The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs will undertake extensive initiatives to honor his legacy. About the 'Zia Swadhinata Complex' located near the Kalurghat Betar Center in Chittagong, he said that the complex's name was altered due to vengeful political motives. In the future, efforts will be made to redevelop it as the 'Zia Smriti Complex'.