Former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed condolences following the death of BNP chief Khaleda Zia, her archrival who dominated Bangladesh's politics alongside her for decades.
In a condolence message posted on the Awami League's X account on Tuesday, Hasina described Khaleda as a significant figure in the country's political history, highlighting her role as Bangladesh's first woman prime minister and her contributions to the struggle to establish democracy.
"As the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh, and for her role in the struggle to establish democracy, her contributions to the nation were significant and will be remembered," Hasina said.
She added that Khaleda's death marked "a profound loss for Bangladesh's political life" and for the leadership of the BNP.
Hasina also offered prayers for Khaleda's soul and conveyed sympathy to her family, including her son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, as well as to party leaders and supporters.
"I hope Almighty Allah grants them patience, strength and comfort to endure this difficult time," she said.
In a separate message, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, has expressed condolences over the death of BNP chief and former premier Khaleda Zia.
In a post on X on Tuesday, Joy extended his sympathies to Khaleda Zia's family and supporters, describing her death as a blow to the country's efforts to stabilise during its political transition.
"At such a critical time when countrymen are reeling from a lack of safety, with efforts underway to destabilise and depoliticise the country, her passing away will leave a deep impact on the country's transition," he wrote.
Despite the long-standing political rivalry between Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina, Joy acknowledged Khaleda's role in shaping national policy, saying she achieved "a host of successes" over the course of her political career.
"Despite being subjected to a depoliticisation process in the past, throughout her political career, she achieved a host of successes and shaped several policies for the country.
"She will be remembered for her contributions to nation-building, but her death is a blow to stabilising Bangladesh." �"bdnews24
