Jahangirnagar University (JU) Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan has expressed deep sorrow at the death of former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
In a condolence message issued on Tuesday afternoon, JU VC said, "The nation has lost a significant statesperson and guardian with the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, who served as the country’s elected Prime Minister three times."
Prof Kamrul Ahsan said, "Khaleda Zia earned recognition among the masses as the “Uncompromising Leader” for her firm and principled role in the anti-autocracy movement. He described her death as the departure of a legendary figure in history, a loss that can never be replaced. He also noted that Khaleda Zia symbolised national unity and transformed herself from a homemaker into the leader of millions in response to the demands of time."
Vice-Chancellor said, "Khaleda Zia remained steadfast in her commitment to democratic values and consistently stood for the rights of the country, its soil, and its people. He added that she inspired people through her personal and social values, while her composed, refined and tolerant character set her apart as a leader."
Prof Ahsan further said that Khaleda Zia always played a bold and vocal role in protecting independence, sovereignty and national interests. Although she has physically departed, he said, her legacy will remain inseparably linked with Bangladesh’s identity and continue to shape the country’s political history.
In his message, JU VC also quoted a speech Khaleda Zia delivered to the nation following the mass uprising of 2024. Referring to the speech, he said she urged the nation to rebuild a prosperous Bangladesh from the ruins of destroyed democracy and called for love, peace and a knowledge-based society instead of destruction or revenge.
Prof Ahsan concluded by praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members.
Earlier, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia breathed her last at 6:00 AM on Tuesday, while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital.
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