Dhaka: BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced at a special meeting of the Council of Advisers that BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside her husband, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, following her namaj-e-janaza tomorrow. The funeral prayers will take place at the Jatiya Sangsad South Plaza and the adjoining Manik Mia Avenue after Johr prayers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus chaired the meeting at the State Guest House Jamuna, with BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attending by special invitation. Law Adviser Professor Dr. Asif Nazrul briefed the media after the meeting, expressing gratitude on behalf of Khaleda Zia’s family and the BNP to the interim government for their support and security arrangements.
Professor Yunus assured the government’s assistance for the janaza and burial. The meeting began with a one-minute silence in tribute to the late Prime Minister. Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain led prayers for Khaleda Zia’s soul.
The council decided to observe three days of state mourning, starting tomorrow, and declared a one-day general holiday. Prof Asif Nazrul mentioned that the national flag will be flown at half-mast during this period, and special prayers will be conducted nationwide. Condolence books will be available at Bangladesh missions abroad.
Prof Yunus expressed deep condolences over Khaleda Zia’s death, recalling their last meeting on Armed Forces Day. He emphasized the nation’s loss and the need for unity during this time. Prof Nazrul attributed responsibility for Khaleda Zia’s death to the deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government, citing past injustices.
The briefing was attended by Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam and Deputy Press Secretary Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad Majumder.