Dhaka, Dec 30 (V7N) — Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul has alleged that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government were responsible for the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

He made the remarks while responding to journalists’ questions following a special meeting of the Advisory Council held at the state guest house Jamuna on Tuesday (December 30).

Dr. Asif Nazrul said, “The fascist Sheikh Hasina and her government are responsible for the death of Begum Khaleda Zia. She was pushed towards death through a farcical and false verdict.” He added that had Khaleda Zia received proper medical treatment earlier, her life might have been saved.

“Since this interim government came to power, every effort has been made to ensure her due dignity. The Chief Advisor was always concerned about her condition. If she had been released two years ago, she might have had the opportunity to receive appropriate treatment,” he said.

Referring to her political legacy, the advisor described Begum Khaleda Zia as a three-time Prime Minister, an uncompromising leader, and a steadfast guardian of democracy, sovereignty, and national dignity. He said she passed away at 6:00 am on Tuesday, leaving the entire nation, including members of the interim government, deeply grief-stricken.

Dr. Asif Nazrul said a special Advisory Council meeting, chaired by Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus, was convened amid the national mourning. At the beginning of the meeting, a minute of silence was observed, followed by prayers seeking forgiveness for the departed soul of Begum Khaleda Zia. The prayers were led by the Religious Affairs Advisor.

The meeting adopted several key decisions, including:

  • Declaration of three days of state mourning

  • Announcement of a one-day general holiday on the day of her funeral

  • Passing of an official condolence resolution

  • Decision to open condolence books at all Bangladeshi embassies abroad

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was present at the meeting.

Dr. Asif Nazrul further informed that Begum Khaleda Zia’s funeral prayers (janaza) will be held after Zohr on Wednesday at Manik Mia Avenue, adjacent to the South Plaza of the National Parliament. Following the funeral, she will be laid to rest beside the grave of her late husband, martyred President and freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan.

He said the Chief Advisor has assured that the government will extend all necessary cooperation to ensure the funeral and related arrangements are carried out with due dignity.