Former US Ambassador to Bangladesh Marcia Bernicat said that despite facing persecution and crisis in her long political career, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia never resorted to accusations. Rather, she earned everyone’s respect with her sincerity and heartfelt behavior. As a female leader in South Asia, her leadership will be an example for the subcontinent.
Bernicat made these remarks while addressing a memorial service for Khaleda Zia at the National Press Club in Washington on Monday. The memorial service was organized by Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico Mushfiqul Fazal Ansari.
Bernicat recalled that Khaleda Zia was cheerful and humane even in difficult times. She was dedicated to the welfare of the people of Bangladesh, and her political and humanitarian legacy will be remembered as long as the country exists.
Ambassador Mushfiqul Fazal Ansari said at the event that Khaleda Zia was an integral part of Bangladesh’s democratic movement and a courageous guardian of independence and sovereignty. He referred to political imprisonment as a conspiracy and highlighted the context of international human rights reports.
Former US Ambassador Dan Mozena said that Khaleda Zia continued her struggle despite illness and hardship, and Bangladesh-US relations have progressed under her leadership. Other speakers at the event paid tribute to Khaleda Zia’s life of struggle and political contributions.