Bangladesh is set to hold the funeral of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia on Wednesday, with full state honours. She will be buried beside her husband, former President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman, at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, following Zohr prayers at the Parliament’s South Plaza and Manik Mia Avenue. Zia passed away earlier on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.
The interim government, in a televised address, announced a three-day state mourning and a one-day general holiday on the day of her Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayers). Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus urged citizens to maintain discipline and order during the mourning period and to cooperate with authorities overseeing the funeral formalities.
Special arrangements have been made for national observances during the mourning period. The national flag will fly at half-mast at all government, semi-government, and autonomous institutions, educational establishments, and Bangladesh missions abroad, while condolence books will be opened internationally for those wishing to pay respects.
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Religious observances will also be organized nationwide. Special prayers for Khaleda Zia’s eternal peace will be held in mosques, and similar prayers will be observed at places of worship for other faiths, reflecting the country’s commitment to inclusivity in mourning the former leader.
The government confirmed full logistical and security support for the funeral and burial. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir attended a special advisory council meeting, ensuring coordination with Zia’s party for the ceremonies, while law and protocol arrangements were finalized for the state funeral.
Zia, a three-time Prime Minister and longtime BNP leader, played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Her passing marks the end of an era, prompting the nation to observe mourning and remember her contributions to the country’s governance and democratic processes.
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