Khaleda Zia Death News: Bangladesh will hold the funeral of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia on Wednesday, following her death at the age of 80. The government has announced three days of national mourning and a one-day general holiday to honour the late leader.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced on Tuesday, hours after Khaleda Zia passed away in Dhaka following a long illness. The country has lowered flags to half-mast, and political activities have slowed as citizens prepare to bid farewell to one of Bangladesh’s most influential political figures.
Bangladesh Announces National Mourning and Holiday
In a televised address to the nation, Muhammad Yunus urged citizens to observe the mourning period peacefully. He appealed for discipline during funeral prayers and public gatherings.
“I humbly appeal to everyone to maintain discipline while observing all forms of mourning, including the funeral prayers. I know you are all deeply emotional at this time,” Yunus said.
The government confirmed that all official programmes would remain suspended during the mourning period. Security arrangements have also been tightened in Dhaka ahead of the funeral.
Khaleda Zia’s Final Journey
Khaleda Zia served as prime minister three times and led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for decades. Her death marks the end of an era in the country’s politics.
She died earlier on Tuesday in a Dhaka hospital after battling prolonged health issues. Family members and senior party leaders were present during her final moments.
The BNP has announced nationwide prayer gatherings and remembrance events ahead of her burial.
Khaleda Zia’s India Connection
Few people know that Khaleda Zia had deep roots in India. She was born on August 15, 1945, in Jalpaiguri, located in present-day West Bengal. At the time, the region was part of undivided British India.
After the Partition, her family moved to Dinajpur, which is now in Bangladesh. She completed her early education at Dinajpur Missionary School and later joined Dinajpur Girls’ School in 1960.
Her father, Iskandar Ali Majumder, was involved in the tea business before the family migrated. Her mother was Taiyaba Majumder.
Global Leaders React to Khaleda Zia’s Death
Leaders from across South Asia expressed grief over Khaleda Zia’s passing. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared his condolences in a message posted on X.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the BNP and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Her lifelong service to Bangladesh and its growth and development leaves a lasting legacy.”
He added, “Begum Zia was a committed friend of Pakistan. My Government and the people of Pakistan stand with the people of Bangladesh in this moment of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the people of Bangladesh during this difficult time. May Allah SWT bless her soul. Ameen!”
PM Modi and Sheikh Hasina Pay Tribute
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted to the news and remembered Khaleda Zia’s role in strengthening bilateral ties. Mourning her loss, PM Modi said he was “deeply saddened” to learn of her passing and recalled her contributions to India–Bangladesh relations.
Former Bangladeshi prime minister and long-time political rival Sheikh Hasina also expressed condolences.
“I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and for her role in the struggle to establish democracy, her contributions to the nation were significant and will be remembered,” she said.
She added, “Her passing represents a profound loss for Bangladesh’s political life and for the leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. I pray for the eternal peace and forgiveness of Begum Khaleda Zia’s soul.”
Nation Prepares to Bid Farewell
As Bangladesh prepares for Khaleda Zia’s funeral on Wednesday, supporters and critics alike acknowledge her lasting impact on the country’s political landscape.
Her death has united rival parties, global leaders, and citizens in shared grief, marking a rare moment of national reflection in Bangladesh’s deeply divided political history.
