DHAKA, Mar 30 (V7N) — The first funeral prayer for Professor Dilara Hafiz, wife of Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed, was held at the South Plaza of Sangsad Bhavan at 12 noon on Monday. Prime Minister Tariq Rahman joined hundreds of mourners to pay his final respects, placing a floral wreath on the coffin of the deceased as a mark of state honor.

The ceremony saw a significant gathering of the country's political leadership, including the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and the Leader of the Opposition. Members of the Cabinet, several Members of Parliament, and citizens from various walks of life also participated in the prayers. During the event, the Leader of the Opposition and the BNP General Secretary shared moving reflections on the colorful and impactful life of the late professor.

Following the prayers, formal tributes were paid as representatives of the President placed wreaths on the coffin. Similar honors were bestowed by the Speaker of Parliament, the Whip, and the Leader of the Opposition, underscoring the high esteem in which Professor Dilara Hafiz was held by the state.

Professor Dilara Hafiz passed away on Saturday at 11:29 AM while undergoing medical treatment at the Singapore General Hospital. Aged 78, she leaves behind her husband, two sons, and a daughter. Her loss has been met with widespread condolences across the academic and political spheres of the country.

A second Janaza is scheduled to take place at the Central Jama Masjid in Dhaka Cantonment following the Bad Zohr prayers. Following this final religious rite, she will be laid to rest with full honors at the Banani Military Cemetery.

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