3-Day State Mourning Declared for Khaleda Zia, Public Holiday Tomorrow

The interim government has declared three days of state mourning in memory of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. A public holiday has been announced for tomorrow (Wednesday, 31 December), the day of her funeral prayer.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus made this announcement in a televised address to the nation on Tuesday (30 December).

In his address, the Chief Adviser said:

“Dear countrymen, Assalamu Alaikum.

Today, the entire nation is stunned with profound grief and sorrow. The top leader of democratic politics in our country, former Prime Minister, and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is no longer among us. Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un.

I am deeply shocked and saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia. The nation has lost a great guardian.

At this moment of profound grief, on behalf of the entire nation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family members, political associates, and countless workers and supporters.

I pray to Almighty Allah to grant us all the strength to overcome this deep sorrow.

Begum Khaleda Zia was not just the leader of a political party; she was an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Considering her contributions, long struggle, and the affection of the people towards her, the government has declared her a person of national importance this month.

Her role in the struggle for democracy, multi-party political culture, and the establishment of people’s rights in Bangladesh will remain memorable. Her uncompromising leadership repeatedly inspired the nation to free itself from undemocratic conditions and provided the spirit of liberation. The nation will remember her contributions to the country and the people with deep respect.

Despite political differences, her long political journey for the welfare of the nation, people-oriented leadership, and strong resolve always showed the way. Her death means the nation has lost an experienced and tested politician.

Three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister and Chairperson of BNP, who led the struggle to return democracy after autocratic rule.

After the assassination of her husband, former President, Army Chief, and Liberation War hero Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia emerged from being a housewife to the political arena in 1982. Her strong leadership played a principal role in bringing down the nine-year autocratic rule of Ershad.

Many of Begum Khaleda Zia’s actions and decisions took the country far ahead. She introduced free education and stipends for girls, which is considered a milestone in the advancement of women’s education in Bangladesh.

In her political life, Begum Khaleda Zia was immensely successful. She was never defeated in any election. From 1991 to 2001, in the general elections, she was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies. In 2008, she contested three seats and won all of them.

After being elected Prime Minister in 1991, she laid a strong foundation for the country’s economy through economic liberalisation.

During Sheikh Hasina’s fascist rule, Begum Khaleda Zia was an unparalleled symbol of struggle and resistance. Her uncompromising role greatly inspired the nation during the long fight.

I express deep condolences to her bereaved family and party leaders and activists on the death of Begum Khaleda Zia. I call upon the nation to remain calm and patient on this day of irreparable loss. I also request everyone to pray for her from their respective positions.

Dear countrymen,

In memory of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, I have declared three days of state mourning and a public holiday tomorrow on the day of her funeral prayer.

I humbly appeal to everyone to maintain discipline during the funeral prayer and all mourning programmes.

Dear countrymen,

I know you are all very emotional at this time. I hope that in this period of mourning, you will show patience and cooperate with all concerned in conducting her funeral and all formalities.

May Almighty Allah grant us all patience, strength, and unity. Allah Hafez.”