Millions of mourners join state funeral for Bangladesh's iconic leader
A profound sense of loss has gripped Bangladesh as the nation bids a final farewell to its first woman Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia. On Wednesday, the mortal remains of the 80-year-old leader were brought to her Gulshan residence, "Firoza," where a somber atmosphere prevailed. Family members, including her son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, paid their emotional last respects ahead of the grand Namaz-e-Janaza.
The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has accorded full state honors to the departed leader. A three-day period of national mourning has been declared, with Wednesday being observed as a public holiday. The final funeral prayer is scheduled for 2:00 PM at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building, an event expected to draw a "sea of humanity."
Global Leaders Pay Tribute
The Khaleda Zia funeral has drawn significant international attention, underscoring her influence in South Asian politics. Representing India, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has traveled to Dhaka to offer condolences on behalf of the Indian government and people. Other high-level delegations from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan are also in attendance to honor the woman who served three terms as Prime Minister and was instrumental in restoring democracy in the 1990s.
Resting Beside Her Husband
Following the prayers, the former Prime Minister will be laid to eternal rest at the mausoleum of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has also announced a week-long mourning period, with black flags hoisted at party offices across the country.
Security in the capital has been significantly tightened, with over 10,000 personnel deployed to manage the massive crowds. Despite the grief, BNP leaders have urged supporters to maintain discipline and dignity during the proceedings. As tributes pour in from the UN, US, China, and Russia, Bangladesh stands united in remembering a leader who shaped its modern history.
