Bangladesh recently held a poignant state funeral for Khaleda Zia, a groundbreaking political figure who became the country’s first female prime minister and left an indelible mark on its history. Her passing at age 80 prompted widespread national mourning, reflecting not only her significant political legacy but also the deep respect she earned from many Bangladeshis across the political spectrum.
Bangladesh bid farewell to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in a state funeral that drew vast crowds mourning a towering political figure whose leadership shaped the nation for decades. Zia, who became the first woman to serve as prime minister in the South Asian nation of 170 million, died on Tuesday at the age of 80. In honor of her contributions, flags flew at half-mast across the country on Wednesday, as thousands of security personnel lined the streets of Dhaka to maintain order during the procession of her flag-draped coffin through the capital.
Massive crowds gathered outside Bangladesh’s parliament building for funeral prayers, with people from Dhaka and beyond streaming toward Manik Mia Avenue since early morning to pay their last respects. Among the attendees was 70-year-old retired government official Minhaz Uddin, who, despite never having voted for her, felt compelled to honor a veteran politician whose legacy is firmly entrenched in the nation’s history. “I came here with my grandson, just to say goodbye to a veteran politician whose contributions will always be remembered,” he stated, observing the proceedings from behind a barbed wire barricade.
Zia’s political career began after the death of her husband when she emerged as a prominent opposition leader against a military ruler ultimately ousted during the 1990 mass uprising. She first ascended to the prime ministership in 1991 after a landslide electoral victory coinciding with the reestablishment of parliamentary democracy, remaining a key figure in Bangladeshi politics as the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party until her passing.
Recognized for her calm demeanor and composed leadership style, Zia maintained a strong political rivalry with her archrival, Sheikh Hasina, the head of the Bangladesh Awami League. Hasina governed for 15 years before being ousted in a notable mass uprising in 2024.
In anticipation of the significant turnout, security was extensive, with authorities deploying approximately 10,000 personnel, including soldiers, to ensure a peaceful environment. The interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus announced three days of national mourning and declared Wednesday a public holiday to commemorate the legacy of the three-time prime minister.
#PoliticsNews #WorldNews