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Bangladesh mourned the passing of Khaleda Zia on Wednesday with a nationwide state funeral, drawing large crowds to pay their final respects to a prominent political figure who shaped the country’s political landscape for decades.
Zia, the first woman to hold the position of prime minister in Bangladesh’s 170 million-strong population, passed away on Tuesday at age 80.
National flags flew at half-mast, and security personnel lined the streets as her body was transported through Dhaka in a vehicle adorned with the national flag’s colors. Thousands of mourners gathered outside parliament and along the roads leading to it, many waving national flags as well as those of her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Prayers were held over her coffin, with the presence of notable figures, including National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who traveled to Dhaka to attend.
Minhaz Uddin, a retired government official aged 70, expressed his respect even though he had never voted for her. “I came here with my grandson just to honor a veteran politician whose contributions will be remembered forever,” he said, observing her passing from behind a barrier of barbed wire.
A diverse sea of attendees filled the streets around the parliament, many waving BNP and national flags, with her casket expected to be laid to rest alongside her late husband, Ziaur Rahman, who was assassinated in 1981 during his presidency.
Despite battling health issues and enduring imprisonment, Zia remained committed to her political ambitions, including campaigning for elections scheduled for February 12—the first since her rival Sheikh Hasina was ousted last year. Her party, BNP, is viewed as a leading contender in the upcoming elections, with her son, Tarique Rahman, who recently returned after 17 years in exile, seen as a potential prime minister if the party wins a majority.
Tarique Rahman issued a statement emphasizing her enduring influence, noting that “the country mourns the loss of a guiding light that shaped its democratic hopes.” He highlighted her resilience, stating, “Her strength was unbreakable, despite repeated arrests and persecution.”
Earlier this year, just hours before her death, party workers submitted her candidacy papers for three electoral constituencies. International leaders also paid their respects; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope that Zia’s vision and legacy would continue to steer their partnership. Meanwhile, Sheikh Hasina, who has been sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity and remains in India, offered her condolences, praying for her eternal peace and forgiveness.
Zia’s health had deteriorated significantly since her hospitalization in late November. Nonetheless, her supporters pressed ahead, demonstrating loyalty by preparing for her final journey and honoring her life’s work. Her remains will be laid to rest beside her husband, memorializing her ongoing influence in Bangladesh’s political history.
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