Bangladesh, May 30 -- The 45th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, proclaimer of the country's independence, one of the sector commanders of the Liberation War, founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and advocate of multi-party democracy, was observed in Rajshahi today with due respect and solemnity.

Marking the occasion, Rajshahi city BNP and its affiliated and associate bodies kept the national and party flags at half-mast and hoisted black flags at the party office in Malopara, reports BSS.

As part of the observance, the national flag and party flag were flown at half-mast while black flags were raised at 7:30 am. Leaders and activists also wore black badges.

Minister of Land Mizanur Rahman Minu, MP, ...