Dhaka, May 18 -- The BNP has announced an eight-day series of events to commemorate the 45th death anniversary of its founder, the late president Ziaur Rahman.

Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi detailed the programme, running from May 25 to Jun 1, during a press conference at the chairman's Gulshan office on Tuesday.

The decision followed a joint meeting with party affiliates.

Rizvi described Zia as "a great epoch-maker, gallant freedom fighter, sector commander, and the man who proclaimed independence".

"His memory remains alive among party leaders and the people of the country," the veteran leader said.

He said Eid-ul-Azha falling within the period meant associate organisations could hold discussion meetings a day or...