Bangladesh is observing a three-day state mourning, with Wednesday declared a general holiday, following the death of Bangladesh Nationalist Party Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus announced the decision in a televised address to the nation on Tuesday.
“I humbly appeal to everyone to maintain discipline in all forms of mourning, including the namaz-e-janaza,” he said. “I know that you are all very emotional at this time. I hope that you will show patience during this period of mourning and cooperate with all those involved in carrying out the formalities, including her funeral.”
“May the Almighty Allah grant us all patience, strength and the ability to remain united,” the Chief Adviser said.
As part of the state mourning programme, the national flag will be flown at half-mast for three days at all government, semi-government and autonomous offices, educational institutions and public and private buildings across the country, as well as at Bangladesh missions abroad.
Special prayers will be offered at mosques across the country on Friday, January 2, 2026, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul.
Similar prayers will also be held at other religious institutions.
