Dhaka, 30 December 2025 – Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, three-time former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and a symbol of the country’s democratic movement. In a condolence message, the Chief Adviser said, “With the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost a great guardian. I am deeply saddened and grief-stricken by her demise.” Professor Yunus stated that Begum Khaleda Zia was not merely the leader of a political party; she represented a significant chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Considering her contributions, long political struggle, and deep emotional connection with the people, the government had earlier declared her a Very Important Person (VIP) of the state this month. He noted that her role in establishing democracy, promoting a multi-party political culture, and safeguarding the rights of the people would remain memorable in the nation’s history. Her uncompromising leadership repeatedly inspired the nation to emerge from periods of democratic suppression. The country will remember her contributions with deep respect, he said. Despite political differences, Begum Khaleda Zia’s long political journey, people-oriented leadership, and unwavering resolve consistently guided the nation. With her death, Bangladesh has lost a seasoned and tested political leader, the Chief Adviser remarked.
In his message, Professor Yunus recalled that Begum Khaleda Zia was the country’s first woman Prime Minister and Chairperson of the BNP, who led the struggle to restore democracy against authoritarian rule. He further stated that following the assassination of her husband, former President, Army Chief, and decorated freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman, Begum Khaleda Zia entered politics in 1982. Rising from the life of a homemaker, her strong leadership played a decisive role in ending the nine-year authoritarian rule of Hussain Muhammad Ershad. The Chief Adviser said many of her initiatives and decisions helped advance the country significantly. In particular, the introduction of free education and stipend programs for girls marked a historic milestone in the advancement of female education in Bangladesh. He also highlighted her remarkable political success, noting that she never lost an election. Between 1991 and 2001, she was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies, and in 2008, she won all three seats she contested. Professor Yunus mentioned that after assuming office as Prime Minister in 1991, Begum Khaleda Zia laid a strong foundation for the national economy through economic liberalization. Referring to recent political history, he said that during what he described as the fascist rule of Sheikh Hasina, Begum Khaleda Zia emerged as a unique symbol of resistance and struggle. Her uncompromising stance throughout prolonged movements greatly inspired the nation. The condolence message further stated that due to her political success, she became a victim of extreme political vendetta. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison in what were described as false and fabricated cases and endured prolonged incarceration. Expressing heartfelt sympathy, the Chief Adviser conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members and party leaders and activists of Begum Khaleda Zia. On this irreplaceable day of national loss, he urged the people of the country to remain calm and patient, and requested everyone to pray for the eternal peace of her soul.
