Editing Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) (section)

== Founding and Early Years ==
The BNP was established by '''President Ziaur Rahman''' in 1978 as a response to the need for a national political platform that reflected ''Bangladeshi nationalism''—an identity distinct from linguistic or regional nationalism. Its foundation came during a transitional period when Bangladesh was recovering from post-independence political turmoil and military rule.

Ziaur Rahman’s vision centered on '''sovereignty, self-reliance, and unity''', emphasizing the importance of a strong, independent national identity. He introduced a 19-point program focusing on economic development, rural empowerment, and political pluralism.

The BNP made a strong start by winning the '''1979 general election''', cementing its status as a major political party.