Ziaur Rahman, often referred to as Zia, assumed the presidency of Bangladesh during a period fraught with significant challenges. The country was grappling with low productivity, a devastating famine in 1974, sluggish economic growth, widespread corruption, and a politically volatile atmosphere following the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. This turmoil was compounded by subsequent military counter-coups.

Despite these obstacles, Zia is remembered for his effective administration and pragmatic policies that spurred Bangladesh's economic recovery. His tenure was marked by a liberalization of trade and encouragement of private sector investments. A notable achievement was the initiation of manpower exports to Middle Eastern countries, significantly boosting Bangladesh's foreign remittance and transforming the rural economy. Under his leadership, Bangladesh also entered the ready-made garments sector, capitalizing on the multi-fibre agreement. This industry now accounts for 84% of Bangladesh's total exports. Furthermore, the share of customs duty and sales tax in the total tax revenue surged from 39% in 1974 to 64% in 1979, indicating a substantial increase in economic activities.^[29] Agriculture flourished during Zia's presidency, with output growing two to threefold within five years. Notably, in 1979, jute became profitable for the first time in independent Bangladesh's history.^[30]

Zia's leadership was challenged by multiple deadly coups within the Bangladesh Army, which he suppressed with force. Secret trials according to military law followed each coup attempt. However, his fortune ran out on 30 May 1981, when he was assassinated by military personnel at the Chittagong Circuit House. Zia received a state funeral in Dhaka on 2 June 1981, attended by hundreds of thousands of people, marking it as one of the largest funerals in world history. His legacy is a blend of economic revitalization and political instability, with significant contributions to Bangladesh's development and a tenure marred by military unrest.