Staff Correspondent:
A citizens’ condolence meeting was held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in memory of the late Begum Khaleda Zia, the mother of democracy, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson.
Former Chief Justice Syed JR Modasshir Hossain presided over the condolence meeting held at the open space of the South Plaza on Friday (16 January 2026) at 3 pm.
BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman was present with his family at the condolence meeting. He was accompanied by his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, daughter Jaima Rahman, Arafat Rahman Coco’s wife Shamila Rahman and family members. The country’s top political leaders, diplomats, journalists, academicians, researchers, businessmen and prominent people from various classes and professions participated at this time.
Earlier, after Tarique Rahman’s presence at 2:30 pm, a documentary about Khaleda Zia was screened. The formal proceedings of the condolence meeting began at 3:05 pm with the recitation of the Quran. The condolence was read by Saleh Uddin, Executive Editor of Dainik Ittefaq.
In his speech as the president, former Chief Justice Syed JR Modasshir Hossain said that Begum Khaleda Zia was not just the leader of a party, she was a unique personality of democratic politics. She showed self-respect and patience even amidst political persecution. He urged the government to confer the highest honorary state title on Khaleda Zia.
Economist Professor Mahbub Ullah said that Khaleda Zia loved the country and its people deeply. She was uncompromising in the interests of the country. Her expressed ideals will guide the future generations.
Legal Advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul said that the trial process conducted against Begum Khaleda Zia was against justice. He said that if Bangladesh is to be kept well, Khaleda Zia’s ideals must be embraced.
Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam said that Khaleda Zia’s generosity and last words against political revenge are important guidelines for the future of Bangladesh.
New Age Editor Nurul Kabir said that Khaleda Zia rose beyond party lines and became a national leader, which was proven by the spontaneous participation of people in her funeral.
Amar Desh Editor Mahmudur Rahman said that the political legacy of Shaheed Zia and Begum Khaleda Zia is now on the shoulders of Tarique Rahman, which brings pride as well as great responsibility.
Economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya said that one of Khaleda Zia’s qualities was listening, asking questions and making decisions in the interest of the country. History will remember her.
Writer and researcher Mohiuddin Ahmed said that Khaleda Zia’s last words teach us to avoid revenge and spread light.
Jayjay Din Editor Shafiq Rehman said that in order to transform grief into strength, people’s participation must be ensured in the upcoming elections.
ICCB President Mahbubur Rahman said that Khaleda Zia played an important role in infrastructure development, investment security and social progress during her tenure.
Debashish Roy, Basudeb Dhar, FM Siddiqui, Simin Rahman, SMA Fayez, Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Shafiq Rehman and many others also spoke at the condolence meeting.
The condolence meeting ended at 5:30 pm with prayers and supplications seeking forgiveness for the soul of Begum Khaleda Zia.
Strict security measures were taken for the condolence meeting. Members of various law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies including the army, police, RAB, BGB, Coast Guard performed their duties.
