Chattogram: Chattogram Press Club today organised a Khatme Quran, doa mahfil, and discussion in memory of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The programme was held at the VIP lounge of the Chattogram Press Club. Club President Zahidul Karim Kochi presided over the event, while Joint Secretary Meah Mohammed Arif moderated it.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, speakers paid tribute to Begum Khaleda Zia for her commitment to democracy, national sovereignty, and the rights of the people. They highlighted that despite facing political challenges and repression, Begum Zia remained firm in her principles, securing her a notable place in Bangladesh's political history.
The speakers recalled that in 1995, during a challenging period for the Chattogram Press Club, Begum Khaleda Zia donated Tk 15 lakh for the club's expansion. They noted that this contribution was not properly acknowledged in the past, adding that the current management committee is working to ensure it receives due recognition.
They also mentioned that after being re-elected as Prime Minister in 2001, Begum Khaleda Zia initiated the allocation of plots in the Kalpalok residential area under a special arrangement to address journalists' housing needs. Earlier, in 1980, President Ziaur Rahman allocated 16 acres of land in the Bayezid area of Chattogram at a nominal price to help resolve the housing crisis of journalists.
The event was attended by Press Club General Secretary Golam Maula Murad, former General Secretary and Daily People's View Editor Osman Gani Mansur, freedom fighter and senior member Moinuddin Qaderi Shawkat, Advisory Council member Shamsul Haque Hidari, DAB Central Coordinator Dr. Sarwar Alam, Press Club Senior Vice President Mustafa Nayem, Vice President Daisy Moudud, and Executive Member and Metropolitan Journalists Union General Secretary Saleh Noman, among others.