Dhaka, Dec 30 (V7N) — Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor to the Interim Government, has expressed profound grief over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, former three-time Prime Minister, BNP Chairperson, and a prominent symbol of Bangladesh’s democratic movement.

In a condolence message, Professor Yunus said, “With the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost one of its great guardians. I am deeply saddened and shocked by her death.”

He stated that Begum Khaleda Zia was not merely a political party leader but “an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh.” Considering her long political struggle, contributions to the nation, and the affection of the people, the government had declared her a Very Important Person (VIP) of the state earlier this month, he added.

The Chief Advisor said that her role in establishing democracy, multiparty political culture, and people’s rights would remain memorable. “Through her uncompromising leadership, the nation was repeatedly freed from undemocratic situations and inspired to resist oppression,” he said, noting that the country would remember her contributions with deep respect.

Despite political differences, Professor Yunus acknowledged her people-oriented leadership, strong morale, and long political journey, stating that her death has deprived the nation of an experienced and tested stateswoman.

He recalled that Begum Khaleda Zia was the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the BNP Chairperson who led the struggle to restore democracy during periods of dictatorship. Entering politics in 1982 following the assassination of her husband — former President, Army Chief, and heroic freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman — her leadership played a decisive role in ending the nine-year autocratic rule of dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad, he said.

Professor Yunus highlighted several landmark decisions taken during her tenure, including the introduction of free education and stipends for female students, which he described as a milestone in advancing women’s education in Bangladesh.

He noted that Begum Khaleda Zia enjoyed significant electoral success, stating that she never lost an election. She was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies between 1991 and 2001, and won all three seats she contested in the 2008 general election.

After assuming office as Prime Minister in 1991, she laid a strong foundation for the national economy through economic liberalization, the Chief Advisor said.

Referring to the later phase of her political life, Professor Yunus described Begum Khaleda Zia as a symbol of resistance during what he termed Sheikh Hasina’s fascist regime. “Her uncompromising stance greatly inspired the nation during a prolonged struggle,” he said.

He further stated that she became a victim of severe political vendetta due to her political success and was sentenced to 17 years in prison in what he described as false and fabricated cases, spending a prolonged period in incarceration.

Professor Yunus expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, as well as BNP leaders and activists. Calling the loss irreparable for the nation, he urged citizens to remain calm and patient, and requested everyone to pray for the eternal peace of Begum Khaleda Zia from their respective positions.

END/SMA/AJ