Was Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia Laid to Rest with Full State Honours?
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Synopsis
In a poignant farewell, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia of Bangladesh was laid to rest with full state honors, surrounded by a gathering of mourners, political leaders, and security forces. This significant event marks the end of an era for the BNP chairperson, who leaves behind a legacy intertwined with the nation's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Khaleda Zia was laid to rest with full state honors, emphasizing her importance in Bangladeshi politics.
- A large number of supporters attended her funeral, showcasing her enduring influence.
- She passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.
- The funeral witnessed the presence of various political figures and international representatives.
Dhaka, Dec 31 (NationPress) Khaleda Zia, the chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, was honored with a full state funeral on Wednesday after her prayer services held at the South Plaza of the Parliament complex in Dhaka, as per local media.
She was interred alongside her husband and former president Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the capital on Wednesday afternoon.
The ceremony saw attendance from prominent figures including Bangladesh's Chief Advisor of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and senior leaders from various political entities, along with foreign ministers and diplomats from different nations, according to UNB.
On the same day, Tarique Rahman called on the public to pray for his mother, Khaleda Zia, before her funeral at Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka.
Addressing a crowd near the Parliament complex prior to the 'janaza', Rahman mentioned that anyone with financial claims against Khaleda Zia during her lifetime should reach out to him and assured that all such dues would be settled.
"If anyone was hurt by her words or actions, I seek forgiveness on her behalf," he remarked, urging the gathering to pray for his mother, as reported by the Bangladeshi Daily Dhaka Tribune.
Thousands of mourners from across the nation congregated around the National Parliament complex on Wednesday afternoon as the funeral prayers for the BNP Chairperson were conducted at the South Plaza.
The hearse transporting Khaleda Zia's body arrived at Manik Mia Avenue from the residence of her son Tarique Rahman in Gulshan, where family members, party officials, and activists had previously paid their final tributes.
Local media indicated that 27 platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were positioned at key locations in Dhaka to ensure stringent security measures.
Khaleda Zia, a three-time Prime Minister and the long-serving chairperson of the BNP, passed away early Tuesday morning at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.
She had been hospitalized in Dhaka on November 23 due to severe complications related to her heart and lungs, remaining under constant medical care until her demise on Tuesday.
She is survived by her elder son, Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter Zaima Rahman.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize her complex legacy. While her time in office was characterized by political strife and controversy, her influence on the BNP and Bangladeshi politics remains significant. The outpouring of grief at her funeral reflects the lasting impact she had on her supporters and the political landscape of the country.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Khaleda Zia's contributions to Bangladesh?
Khaleda Zia served as Prime Minister three times and was a pivotal figure in shaping the political landscape of Bangladesh. Her leadership of the BNP significantly impacted the country's governance and political discourse.
When and where was Khaleda Zia's funeral held?
Khaleda Zia's funeral took place on December 31 at the South Plaza of the Parliament complex in Dhaka.
Who attended Khaleda Zia’s funeral?
The funeral was attended by various political leaders, including Muhammad Yunus, Tarique Rahman, and representatives from multiple countries.
What led to Khaleda Zia's passing?
Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80 due to complications relating to her heart and lungs after being hospitalized for severe health issues.
What security measures were in place during the funeral?
A total of 27 platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh were deployed at strategic locations in Dhaka to ensure security during the funeral proceedings.
