President Mohammed Shahabuddin has expressed profound sorrow and shock at the death of BNP chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
In a condolence message on Tuesday, the President said, "The death of Begum Khaleda Zia has caused irreparable loss to the nation."
Meanwhile, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus also expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her as a towering figure in the country's political history whose extraordinary role in establishing democracy, multi-party political culture and people's rights will remain immortal.
In an address to the nation on Tuesday afternoon, the Chief Adviser said Khaleda Zia's uncompromising leadership against autocracy and fascism repeatedly showed the nation the path out of undemocratic situations and inspired the ongoing struggle for freedom.
"The entire nation stands stunned in deep grief and pain. The leading figure of the country's democratic politics, former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, is no longer with us. Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un," he said.
He said the nation had lost a great guardian with her passing, adding, "At this moment of profound sorrow, on behalf of the entire nation, I express my heartfelt condolences to her family members, political colleagues, and countless leaders, activists and supporters."
The Chief Adviser said Khaleda Zia's long political journey, people-oriented leadership and unwavering role in upholding the independence and sovereignty of the motherland would remain unforgettable.
He also appealed for national unity, cautioning all to remain vigilant so that no one could exploit the situation to create instability or carry out acts of sabotage, stressing the need for responsible conduct from all.
He reiterated that the government had declared a three-day state mourning over the death of the former prime minister, along with a one-day general holiday on the day of her funeral prayers. He urged all to maintain discipline during the funeral and other mourning-related activities.
