The death of BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from political leaders, state institutions and civic bodies, reflecting her long and influential role in Bangladesh’s political life.
President Md Shahabuddin said he was shocked and saddened by Khaleda Zia’s death, describing it as an irreparable loss to the nation. He noted that her firm role in the struggle for democracy and people’s rights would be remembered in Bangladesh’s political history, and urged citizens to honour her legacy.
Chief Adviser to the interim government Professor Muhammad Yunus described Khaleda Zia as “a great guardian” of the nation, saying her death marked the loss of an important chapter in Bangladesh’s history.
Recalling her long struggle for democracy, he said her leadership helped steer the country away from undemocratic situations and inspired movements for political liberation. He also noted that the government had recently recognized her as a person of great importance to the state.
The Election Commission (EC) expressed deep sorrow at her passing, describing Khaleda Zia as an influential figure in the country’s democratic politics. In a condolence message, the EC highlighted her role in advancing multiparty democracy, constitutional governance and parliamentary politics, particularly as an uncompromising opposition leader. It said her contributions to the electoral process and democratic institutions would remain memorable in the nation’s history.
Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader said Khaleda Zia represented a significant chapter in the country’s political history, citing her role in governance and multiparty politics. Her death, he said, had created a void that would be difficult to fill.
Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman, in a Facebook post, offered prayers for her soul and expressed condolences to her family, asking for patience and strength for her loved ones.
Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) Convener Md Nahid Islam described Khaleda Zia as uncompromising on national sovereignty, praising her leadership in the anti-dictatorship movement and her role in restoring parliamentary democracy after the 1990 mass uprising.
Within the BNP, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi were seen in tears during a press conference on Tuesday, mourning the loss of their party chief.
Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu) leaders also expressed sorrow, describing Khaleda Zia as a leader who stood for truth, justice and national dignity, and who resisted pressure and adversity throughout her political career.
