The Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has expressed profound sorrow at the death of Begum Khaleda Zia—three-time former Prime Minister, symbol of the democratic movement, and Chairperson of the BNP.
In a condolence message, the Chief Adviser said that with the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost a great guardian. “I am deeply saddened and grief-stricken by her death,” he said.
Professor Yunus stated that Begum Khaleda Zia was not merely the leader of a political party; she represented an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Considering her contributions, her long struggle, and the deep public sentiment towards her, the government declared her a Very, Very Important Person of the State earlier this month.
The Chief Adviser said that her role in the struggle to establish democracy, a multi-party political culture, and the rights of the people in Bangladesh will be remembered forever. Through her uncompromising leadership, the nation was repeatedly freed from undemocratic conditions and inspired to regain liberty. The nation will remember her contributions to the country and its people with respect.
Despite political differences, her long political journey dedicated to national welfare, her people-oriented leadership, and her firm resolve always showed the way. With her death, the country has lost an experienced and proven stateswoman.
The Chief Adviser noted that three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister and the Chairperson of the BNP, who led the struggle to restore democracy against autocracy.
He said that after the death of her husband—former President, Army Chief, and valiant freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman—Begum Khaleda Zia entered politics in 1982. Her strong leadership played a decisive role in bringing down the nine-year-long autocratic rule of HM Ershad.
The Chief Adviser said that many of Begum Khaleda Zia’s actions and decisions moved the country forward. She introduced free education and stipends for girls, which is considered a milestone in the advancement of women’s eeducation in Bangladesh.
He said that Begum Khaleda Zia was immensely successful in her political life and was never defeated in any election. In the general elections from 1991 to 2001, she was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies. In 2008, she contested three seats and won all of them.
The Chief Adviser said that after being elected Prime Minister in 1991, she laid a strong foundation for the country’s economy through economic liberalization.
He further said that during Sheikh Hasina’s fascist rule, Begum Khaleda Zia stood as a unique symbol of struggle and resistance. Her uncompromising stance greatly inspired the nation throughout a long period of struggle.
The Chief Adviser said that because of her political success, Begum Khaleda Zia became a victim of extreme political vengeance. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison in false and fabricated cases and had to endure long periods of incarceration.
The Chief Adviser expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family of Begum Khaleda Zia and to the leaders and activists of her party.
On this day of irreparable loss for the nation, he called upon the people of the country to remain calm and patient, and requested everyone to pray and offer supplications for Begum Khaleda Zia from their respective positions.
