Nation pauses as Dhaka witnesses an emotional farewell to a towering political figure

The nation paused in reflection as Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia laid to rest following days of mourning. Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia laid to rest on Wednesday as hundreds of thousands of mourners gathered near the national Parliament complex in Dhaka to bid a final goodbye to one of the most influential leaders in the country’s history. The former Prime Minister, who passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness, was accorded a state funeral under tight security arrangements. The final rites marked a historic moment as Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia laid to rest with full state honours in Dhaka.

From early morning, large crowds began arriving at Manik Mia Avenue, creating a sea of people stretching across the parliament grounds. Supporters from across Bangladesh, many carrying party flags and photographs, stood patiently to catch a final glimpse of the leader who shaped the nation’s politics for decades. Emotions ran high as prayers were offered and tears flowed freely among mourners from all walks of life.

The national flag-draped coffin was brought to the funeral site in a guarded convoy, symbolising the respect and recognition she commanded even after her passing. The atmosphere was solemn, marked by silence, prayers, and heartfelt tributes.

A farewell marked by national and international presence

The funeral prayers were held in the afternoon under extensive security, with thousands of police personnel and soldiers deployed to manage the unprecedented crowd. Senior political leaders, judges, military officials, diplomats, and representatives of various parties attended the ceremony, reflecting the stature Khaleda Zia held in public life.

India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who visited Dhaka briefly to convey condolences on behalf of the Government and people of India. He met Khaleda Zia’s son and Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s acting chairperson, Tarique Rahman, and handed over a condolence letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The gesture highlighted the importance of bilateral ties and mutual respect between the two neighbouring nations during a moment of national grief.

Several other South Asian countries also sent high-level representatives, underlining Khaleda Zia’s regional influence. Leaders and envoys from Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives attended the funeral, paying tribute to a leader who played a key role in shaping regional political discourse.

After the prayers, her body was laid to rest beside her late husband, President Ziaur Rahman, with full state honours. The burial ceremony itself was restricted to family members and dignitaries as part of official protocol.

A political legacy that defined generations

Khaleda Zia’s political journey left a deep imprint on Bangladesh’s democratic landscape. As the country’s first woman Prime Minister, she broke barriers and became a symbol of leadership during a time when women in politics were rare across South Asia. Alongside her long-time political rival, Sheikh Hasina, she dominated national politics for more than three decades.

Supporters remember her as a determined leader who stood firm during turbulent times, while critics acknowledge her role in strengthening multi-party democracy. For many ordinary citizens, her policies on education, social welfare, and women’s empowerment had a lasting impact, especially in rural areas.

Throughout the day, mourners shared personal memories and stories, describing her as a leader who understood the struggles of common people. Elderly supporters arrived with younger family members, explaining her significance to the next generation and emphasising the moment as a chapter of history coming to a close.

Authorities ensured smooth arrangements despite the massive turnout, and the capital observed heightened security throughout the day. Flags flew at half-mast, and public institutions maintained a subdued atmosphere as the nation mourned. With Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia laid to rest, Bangladesh marked the end of a defining political chapter. Also Read: Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia laid to rest with full State honours

Conclusion

Khaleda Zia’s final journey brought Bangladesh to a standstill, reflecting the profound influence she held over the country’s political and social fabric. As she is laid to rest, her legacy continues to shape conversations about leadership, democracy, and the future of Bangladesh.