Zia memorial museum to reopen soon after renovation: Liberation war affairs minister

The Zia Memorial Museum in Chattogram will reopen for visitors shortly after renovation and modernisation work is completed, said Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan.

While speaking to journalists after visiting the museum near the Chattogram Circuit House today (5 June), the minister said, “The historic site had long suffered neglect and inadequate maintenance due to ‘vengeful politics’ of previous governments.”

He added, “The museum would be restored to its original dignity with upgraded facilities to preserve the memories and artefacts of former President Ziaur Rahman.”

He noted that several rooms have been left vacant to facilitate ongoing renovation work.

Highlighting Ziaur Rahman’s role in national history, Ahmed Azam Khan said that from his time as a military officer to his presidency, he played a significant role in key chapters of Bangladesh’s development.

He said, “Efforts are underway to systematically preserve his personal belongings and historical memorabilia.”

The minister also claimed that Ziaur Rahman’s contributions, including his role in the Liberation War, declaration of independence, and later administrative leadership, had been underrepresented over time. 

He said successive governments had attempted to obscure his legacy.

Referring to the nearby Kalurghat Radio Station area, he said the “Zia Independence Complex” had previously been renamed for political reasons and there were plans to restore its former identity as the “Zia Memorial Complex.”

The state minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain said the museum and the Zia Memorial Complex are important historical sites and that preserving them is essential for educating the younger generation about national history.

Ishraque said, “Parts of the museum building were damaged due to earthquakes, but renovation work is expected to be completed soon before reopening to the public.”