Dhaka: Condolences continue to pour in across the country for three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away this morning while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and the ministries for environment, forest and climate change and water resources, expressed deep shock at the demise of Begum Khaleda Zia. In a condolence message, the adviser remarked that her death marked the end of an important chapter in Bangladesh’s political history, emphasizing her role in the struggle to establish democracy and multi-party political culture.
Food and Land Adviser Ali Imam Majumder also conveyed profound sorrow, stating that Begum Khaleda Zia was a significant figure in the nation’s democratic politics, describing her passing as an irreplaceable loss. He highlighted her contributions, long struggles, and the government’s recent declaration of her as a very important person of the state.
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter reflected on Khaleda Zia’s leadership as the country’s first female Prime Minister, noting her role in returning Bangladesh to parliamentary democracy and advancing women’s education and empowerment. She emphasized Khaleda Zia’s influence in various sectors, including fisheries and livestock.
Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmin S Murshid expressed sorrow, recognizing Khaleda Zia’s historical significance beyond party politics. She acknowledged her contributions to women’s education and democratic institutions, underscoring her enduring impact despite political differences.
Primary and Mass Education Adviser Professor Dr. Bidhan Ranjan Roy Poddar and other advisers echoed similar sentiments, honoring Khaleda Zia’s legacy in Bangladesh’s democratic history and extending condolences to her family.
Additional tributes were paid by Shipping and Labour and Employment Adviser Brigadier General (Retd) Dr. M Sakhawat Hossain, Liberation War Affairs and Disaster Management and Relief Adviser Faruk E Azam, and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Adviser Supradip Chakma, among others. Each recognized her dedication to democracy and her significant contributions to the nation’s progress.
Various organizations, including the Consumers Association of Bangladesh, Bangladesh Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Amar Bangladesh Party, and Khelafat Majlis, issued condolences, highlighting Khaleda Zia’s commitment to democratic values and national interests.
Numerous leaders from educational institutions, media, and other sectors, such as Khulna Press Club, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, and the India-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also expressed grief over her passing, underscoring her role as a symbol of uncompromising leadership.
Begum Khaleda Zia, aged 80, had been suffering from multiple health complications. She was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23, following advice from her medical board, due to infections in her heart and lungs and other ailments. Her passing marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, and she is remembered as a pivotal figure in the nation’s pursuit of democracy and development.