Singer Asif Akbar has paid tribute to former prime minister Khaleda Zia, describing her as a symbol of unity in the memories of the people of Bangladesh beyond political divisions.
In a Facebook post published on Friday (7 August), Asif said a “new Bangladesh” had emerged on the second anniversary of the July uprising.
He also paid tribute to those who were killed and injured during the movement.
“On the second anniversary of the successful July Revolution, a new Bangladesh has awakened,” Asif wrote. He expressed his “deepest respect” for the 1,400 July martyrs and 30,000 injured July fighters, describing the uprising as the long-awaited victory of people seeking freedom.
He further recalled statements attributed to Khaleda Zia, saying her uncompromising stance on the country’s independence and sovereignty continued to resonate with the younger generation.
Asif also highlighted Khaleda Zia’s attachment to Bangladesh, recalling her statement that the country, its soil and its people were her only home.
He said her burial in Bangladesh and the public response to her funeral reflected the depth of people’s emotions towards her.
In the final part of his post, Asif described Khaleda Zia as a lasting symbol of unity beyond political divisions.
“Khaleda Zia will remain forever in the memories of the people of this country as a symbol of unity beyond political divisions,” he wrote.
“The history of her sacrifice and struggle will inspire generations to come.”
Addressing her directly, Asif added that the younger generation would carry forward her uncompromising spirit and expressed his admiration for what he described as her “steel-hard patriotism.”
He concluded the post by paying his respects to the former prime minister and saying that her memory would never be forgotten.
