The 41-year-long political career of Begum Khaleda Zia, one of the most influential figures in Bangladesh’s political history and a three-time former Prime Minister, came to an end with her tragic demise. This leader, who entered politics during difficult times after the assassination of martyred President Ziaur Rahman in 1981, exerted influence on the country’s politics for more than four decades.
According to official BNP information, after joining the party in 1982, he rose to the top leadership with his organizational skills within a short time. He led the party for 41 consecutive years after assuming the responsibility of BNP Chairperson in 1984. Under his leadership, BNP formed the government in the 1991, 1996 and 2001 national parliamentary elections. Notably, he never lost any parliamentary election in his life.
Khaleda Zia also achieved international recognition when she became the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the second female head of government in the Muslim world in 1991. She was praised worldwide for her role in women’s education and empowerment, and was named one of Forbes magazine’s most powerful women in 2005.
He faced many adversities in his political career. He remained at the center of politics despite imprisonment, long periods of house arrest, and illness. After returning home after his last stay abroad for medical treatment, he was suffering from various complications related to old age.
His death this morning marked the end of a long, eventful, and epic chapter in Bangladeshi politics.