Bangladesh Declares 3-Day State Mourning and Public Holiday for Khaleda Zia

The interim government of Bangladesh has officially declared three days of state mourning following the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the BNP Chairperson and former three-time Prime Minister. The announcement followed an emergency session of the Advisory Council held on Tuesday morning.

Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation to outline the following measures, A three-day mourning period will be observed nationwide to honor the legacy of the prominent leader.

Wednesday (December 31) has been declared a public holiday to facilitate the participation of the public and political leaders in her funeral prayers (janaza).

During the mourning period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, and autonomous institutions, as well as at Bangladesh's missions abroad.1

The decision to grant a public holiday aligns with the scheduled day for her funeral rites. Details regarding the specific locations and times for the janaza are expected to be released by the BNP and the government coordination cell shortly.

This move underscores the state’s recognition of Khaleda Zia’s historical role as a three-time premier and a central figure in the country’s democratic transitions.