Many people died in the anti-Ershad movement that led to General Ershad's downfall on this day when he handed over power to a caretaker government ending nine years of autocratic rule after grabbing power through a coup on March 24, 1982.

The country re-stepped into the parliamentary system of democracy through a constitutional amendment after a free and fair election held in 1991 under the first-ever non-party caretaker government led by the then chief justice Shahabuddin Ahmed.

The February 27, 1991 elections brought the BNP to power while the AL emerged as the main opposition party.

The president, prime minister and opposition leader issued separate messages on the Democracy Day.

In his message, President Iajuddin Ahmed greeted the countrymen on the occasion saying people's united movement for democracy culminated in victory on this memorable day in national history.

He said the nation remembers with great admiration the struggle and sacrifices of those who fought and laid down their lives for the restoration of democracy.

The president said the day's significance in strengthening democracy and establishing the rule of law is immense.

Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in her message called upon all to work together to consolidate democracy, accelerate national development and ensure people's welfare and prosperity by upholding the spirit of national unity as during 1990's mass uprising.

She paid rich tributes to all the martyrs during the nine years struggle for the restoration of democracy.

In a statement, Leader of the Opposition Sheikh Hasina said the 6th of December is a memorable day for the people and that people would foil all conspiracies against democracy by reactionary forces.

Hasina paid homage to those who laid down their lives to establish people's democratic rights.

Different political parties and various socio-cultural organisations have chalked out elaborate programmes to mark the day.