A citizens’ condolence gathering is currently underway in Dhaka to honour the memory of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who passed away on 30 December last year.
The event is being held at South Plaza of National Parliament Building.
BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman attended the gathering with his family, including his wife Zubaida Rahman, daughter Zaima Rahman and wife of his late brother Arafat Rahman Koko, Sharmila Rahman.
The meeting began at 3:05 PM with recitation of the Holy Quran following Tarique Rahman’s arrival.
A eulogy was delivered by Saleh Uddin, Executive Editor of the daily Ittefaq.
Senior BNP leaders, including members of the party’s Standing Committee, joined the event, along with diplomats accredited to Bangladesh.
Guests began arriving at the venue after noon and entry is strictly limited to those with prior invitation cards.
No speeches by political party leaders are planned. Instead, condolence messages are being delivered by distinguished citizens, researchers, doctors, teachers, religious representatives, leaders from hill communities and professionals from various fields.
Security has been tightened around the venue, with personnel from the army, police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Coast Guard, Ansar and intelligence agencies deployed.
BNP leaders and workers from affiliated organizations are also maintaining order.
Khaleda Zia was buried with state honours at Zia Udyan on 31 December last year following her death while undergoing treatment in a hospital.
SH
