Civic Memorial Honors Khaleda Zia, Calls for National Unity

Political leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives gathered at the South Plaza of the National Parliament on Friday afternoon to honor the late BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. Speakers urged the nation to embrace her legacy of "peace over vengeance" to navigate the country’s current transition.

Presiding over the civic memorial, former Chief Justice Syed JR Mudassir Husain described the three-time Prime Minister as a "wise national stateswoman" whose democratic stance and personal sacrifices earned her a distinguished place in history.

“Unity cannot be built on malice or falsehoods,” the former Chief Justice remarked, calling on the nation to abandon the "habit of lying" and the impulse for retaliation. He praised her fortitude, noting that despite years of imprisonment on "vindictive charges," her post-release message in August 2024 championed a society built on reconciliation rather than destruction.

Family members, including her son and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, attended the service. Memorial preparation committee chairman Mahbub Ullah recalled her patriotism, quoting her famous maxim: "I have no address outside this country; this country is my final destination."

Other speakers highlighted her multifaceted contributions: Democratic Struggle: Basudeb Dhar, president of the Puja Udjapan Parishad, noted her constant presence where rights were curtailed. Press Freedom: Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam recalled her respect for independent journalism and tolerance of dissent. Economic Reform: Economist Prof. Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir credited her tenures with lifting millions out of poverty and initiating industrial transformation. Public Service: Former PSC Chairman SMA Faiz highlighted her commitment to merit-based appointments without political interference.

Interim government Advisor Asif Nazrul expressed gratitude to the participants of the July Uprising, stating that Bangladeshis can now freely express both love and criticism. He urged citizens to internalize Khaleda Zia’s honesty and self-sacrifice to move the country forward.