BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Thursday described former BNP chairperson and three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia as a courageous leader and visionary stateswoman who never compromised on democracy, sovereignty, or Bangladesh's independence.
"In her 43 years of political life, she never compromised on democracy. She never compromised on the sovereignty and independence of Bangladesh. That was her greatest achievement, which continues to inspire the people of the country," Fakhrul said while speaking on a condolence motion in Parliament.
The motion expressed profound grief over Khaleda Zia's death, 31 former lawmakers, and several eminent figures from home and abroad. It was moved by newly elected Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed and adopted unanimously in the first session of the 13th Parliament.
Former President A Q M Badruddoza Chowdhury, former deputy leader Matia Chowdhury, former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Pope Francis, and Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei were also remembered.
The House paid tribute to democracy activists and martyrs, including those who lost their lives from 2007 to 2024 fighting for voting rights, human rights, and justice. Special mentions included M. Ilias Ali, Sajedul Islam Sumon, and the martyrs of the July uprising and Uttara Milestone School air crash. Victims of the 2009 Pilkhana carnage and 2013 Shapla Chattar Hefazat rally were also honoured.
Opposition members requested the inclusion of additional names, including former Jamaat-e-Islami MPs Motiur Rahman Nizami, Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed, Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, and others. Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed incorporated all suggestions.
The House observed a one-minute silence and special prayers, led by Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad, for the eternal peace of all departed souls.
Participants highlighted Khaleda Zia's contributions to democracy, noting she took oath as Prime Minister four times, never lost an election, and was widely recognised as 'Deshanetri', the mother of democracy.
Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam called for justice for killings, enforced disappearances, and past corruption, saying the spirit of July represents a democratic and inclusive Bangladesh.
