A profound shadow of mourning has blanketed the port city of Chattogram following the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
From the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, the city witnessed a massive outpouring of grief as political leaders, activists, and citizens from all walks of life gathered to pay their respects to the "Mother of Democracy."
City-Wide Commemorations and Mourning Rites The Chattogram Metropolitan BNP office in Kazir Deuri became the focal point of mourning activities. To honor her memory, the party hoisted black flags and organized a series of spiritual programs, including: Quran Recitations: Conducted by teachers and students from various local madrasas.
Milad and Munajat: Special prayers were offered seeking eternal peace for the departed soul.
Decentralized Programs: Beyond the central office, commemorative events were held across various wards and neighborhoods of the city, highlighting Zia’s lifelong struggle and political sacrifices.
Tributes from Leaders and Institutions Prominent figures in Chattogram expressed their deep condolences, describing her death as an "immortal void" in the nation’s history:
Dr. Shahadat Hossain (City Mayor): The CCC Mayor described the former Prime Minister as an integral part of Bangladesh's democratic fabric, praising her uncompromising stance on voting rights and national sovereignty.
Abul Hashem Bakkar (Former Member Secretary): Labeled her an "uncompromising leader" in Asia who never bowed to tyranny.
Institutional Grief: Southern University Bangladesh and the Chattogram Union of Journalists (CUJ) issued formal statements, recognizing her pivotal role in the 1990s mass uprising and the country's transition to democracy.
Cross-Party Respect: Leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami also joined in the tributes, acknowledging her as a symbol of steadfast courage.
Upcoming Programs In line with the BNP's central directive, a seven-day mourning program has been initiated. Chattogram Metropolitan BNP Member Secretary Nazimur Rahman confirmed that black flag hoisting, Quran Khatam, and Doa Mahfils will continue across the district. Further localized programs are expected to be announced following an upcoming coordination meeting.
