Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has declared three days of state mourning for former prime minister and BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia.
He also declared a one-day public holiday on Wednesday, the day of Khaleda Zia’s namaz-e-janaza (funeral prayers).
In his address to the nation, he said, “I earnestly call upon everyone to maintain discipline in all forms of mourning, including the funeral prayers.”
“I know you are all deeply emotional at this time. I hope that in this period of grief you will show patience and extend cooperation to all concerned in conducting her funeral and related formalities. May Almighty Allah grant us patience, strength, and the ability to remain united,” he also said.
The speech was broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar.
While addressing the nation at 12pm, Yunus said, “Today our entire nation stands silent in deep grief and sorrow. The leading figure of the country’s democratic politics, former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, is no longer among us.”
“We are profoundly shocked and saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia. With her death, the nation has lost a great guardian. At this moment of deep mourning, I extend heartfelt condolences on behalf of the entire nation to her family members, political colleagues, and countless workers and supporters. I pray to Almighty Allah to grant us all the strength to overcome this profound grief.”
He added that Khaleda Zia was a truly eminent personality in Bangladesh’s politics. Her extraordinary role in the struggle for democracy, multi‑party political culture, and the establishment of people’s rights will remain indelible in history. Her uncompromising leadership against autocracy and fascism repeatedly showed the nation the path out of undemocratic situations and inspired liberation.
The nation will forever remember with reverence her shining contributions to the country and the people. Her long political journey, people‑oriented leadership, and unwavering role in upholding the independence and sovereignty of her beloved motherland will remain unforgettable. The void left by such a great, farsighted, and genuine patriotic leader can never be filled, he added.
