Professor Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government, has expressed deep grief over the death of BNP Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. In a condolence message on Tuesday, he said, “The nation has lost an experienced and tested statesman with the passing of Khaleda Zia.”
The chief advisor said, Khaleda Zia is not just the leader of a political party; she is an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh. Her role in the struggle for democracy, multi-party politics and the rights of the people will be remembered. Despite political differences, her long political journey and strong leadership have shown the way to the country.
He further said that Khaleda Zia’s leadership in the movement against dictatorship, her contribution to women’s education—especially the unpaid education and stipend programs—are milestones in the country’s progress. He also mentioned that she has been subjected to extreme retaliation due to her political success.
In his condolence message, the Chief Advisor expressed his condolences to Khaleda Zia’s bereaved family and party leaders and activists and called on the countrymen to remain calm and patient.
It is noteworthy that 80-year-old Begum Khaleda Zia passed away early Tuesday morning while undergoing treatment at the capital’s Evercare Hospital (Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilaihi Rajiun).