Dhaka, Dec 31 (V7N) — Millions of people across the country paid their last respects to former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away at the age of 80 on Tuesday (December 30) while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Khaleda Zia was buried with state honours next to the grave of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan on Wednesday (December 31).

Khaleda Zia’s political life was marked by courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the people of Bangladesh. From leaving her home to join the streets during critical national moments, to leading public meetings at Manik Mia Avenue and serving multiple terms as Prime Minister, she remained steadfast in her principles despite imprisonment, personal loss, and illness. Even in her final months, she chose to stay in Bangladesh, prioritizing the nation over her own comfort.

Her funeral procession began in the morning, with her body first transported from Evercare Hospital to her son Tarique Rahman’s residence in Gulshan, and then to the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building in a freezer van draped in the red-green national flag. Thousands of mourners lined the route, passing through the Parliament area, Shahbagh, Bijoy Sarani, Agargaon, Shamoli, and New Market, reflecting the widespread affection for the leader.

The funeral prayers were conducted at Manik Mia Avenue at around 3 pm, led by Mufti Abdul Malek, Khatib of the National Mosque Baitul Mukarram. Prior to the prayers, BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan spoke about Khaleda Zia’s political journey, followed by an emotional speech from Tarique Rahman on behalf of the family and party. In his address, he asked anyone owed by Khaleda Zia to reach out for repayment and apologized for any past grievances caused by her words or actions.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, leaders of major political parties, and representatives from foreign nations, including Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, Pakistani Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Nepalese Foreign Minister Bala Nanda Sharma, Bhutanese Foreign Minister Leonpo D. N. Dhungel, and a special envoy from Maldives President Dr. Mohammad Muizzu. The presence of regional leaders highlighted her status not only as a party leader but as a national figure.

Following the prayers, Khaleda Zia’s body was taken to Zia Udyan, where she was laid to rest beside Ziaur Rahman with full military honours, including a gun salute and song salute. Attendance at the burial site was limited due to security arrangements, but large crowds remained outside, paying their respects and reflecting on her enduring legacy.

Khaleda Zia’s life and leadership remain deeply ingrained in the collective memory of Bangladesh, representing courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the nation. Her contributions, including her role in restoring democracy, upholding sovereignty, and fighting for the people, will continue to inspire generations.

END/SMA/AJ