The condolence meeting in memory of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is scheduled to be held on Friday. Under the initiative of civil society, this condolence meeting will be held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building at 2:30pm.
According to the organisers, this is not a programme of any political party. It is a humanitarian initiative to pay dignified national-level respect to the national leader.
Economist and political analyst Professor Mahbub Ullah spoke at a press conference held at the Krishibid Institute in the capital on Thursday noon to provide details about the condolence meeting. The entry gates will be opened around 12:30pm for individuals attending the condolence meeting.
At the press conference, outlining the overall preparations and rules for the condolence meeting, he said that since Khaleda Zia’s death on 30 December, a huge number of people have been expressing grief and respect for her. That is why this event is being organised by civil society.
It is a solemn occasion; maintaining decorum is extremely important. He said the condolence meeting is not based on any political party. No leader from any political party will speak from the stage. Top individuals from various professions, researchers, religious representatives, representatives of hill communities, doctors, teachers, and other professionals will deliver speeches. However, political parties have been invited as guests. They will be seated among the audience.
Professor Mahbub Ullah said, “Philosophically speaking, every action of a person is connected to politics in some way. In that sense, this event is both political and apolitical. Because only professionals will speak, not anyone affiliated with a political party.”
When asked whether BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman would speak at the condolence meeting, he said only invited individuals from the professional community. No one from any political party will speak. However, members of Khaleda Zia’s family have been invited and they will be present.
The organisers announced strict rules for the condolence meeting. They stated that taking selfies will not be allowed at this event. Clapping will not be allowed. Standing will not be allowed. Entry without invitation cards is prohibited. However, if any guest forgets to bring their invitation card, there will be an alternative entry pass for them, but only for those on the list.
Due to significant interest from media representatives, more than two and a half thousand invitation cards have been sent to journalists. Separate booths have been arranged for each platform: electronic, print, and online.
When asked whether multimedia workers could attend, the organizers said, the reporter, cameraman, or multimedia worker assigned by the office can enter. However, an invitation card is mandatory. Regarding live coverage, the organisers stated that Wi-Fi, towers, and other technical facilities have been arranged for journalists at the South Plaza of the Parliament Building. BTV will broadcast the main live feed, and other channels can take the feed from there if they wish.
According to the organisers, many from civil society, including engineers, doctors, editors, journalists, teachers from various universities, intellectuals, and religious representatives, have joined this initiative. Invited guests from foreign diplomatic missions will also be present.
Professor Mahbub Ullah said, “We hope that this condolence meeting will establish itself as a solemn and dignified event in the history of Bangladesh. Our expectation is that the nation’s respect for Khaleda Zia is reflected in an honorable and disciplined manner.”
