3-day state mourning at Khaleda Zia’s death, general holiday tomorrow: CA

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today in an address to the nation announced a three-day state mourning from tomorrow at the death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.  Besides, he also declared a general holiday tomorrow, the day of her Namaz-e-Janaza.

“At the death of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, I declare three days of state mourning and a one-day general holiday tomorrow on the day of her Namaz-e-Janaza,” he said in the televised address simultaneously aired by Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar at 12 noon. The Chief Adviser urged everyone to maintain discipline and order during the Janaza and observance of mourning.

“I know that all of you are deeply saddened at this time. I hope that you will show patience during this time of mourning and cooperate all concerned involved in observing all formalities including her Namaz-e-Janaza,” he added. “May Almighty Allah give us patience, strength and the ability to remain united,” Prof Yunus said.

“Today, our entire nation stands still in deep grief and sorrow. Top leader of the country’s democratic politics, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is no longer among us,” the Chief Adviser said in his address. Expressing profound shock and sorrow, at the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, he said, “With her death, the nation has lost a great guardian”.

“At this moment of profound grief, I extend my heartfelt condolences — on behalf of the entire nation — to her family, political colleagues and countless leaders, activists and supporters,” Prof Yunus said. “I pray to Almighty Allah to give all of us the strength to overcome this deep sorrow,” he added.

Describing Begum Khaleda Zia as a dignified figure in Bangladesh’s political history, the Chief Adviser said her extraordinary role in the struggle to establish democracy, a multi-party political culture and the rights of the people will remain indelibly etched in history.  Her uncompromising leadership against autocracy and fascism repeatedly guided the nation the way out of democratic situation and inspired the nation for freedom, he said, adding that the nation will forever remember her illustrious contributions to the country and its people with due respect.

Khaleda Zia’s long political journey, people-oriented leadership and unwavering commitment to upholding the independence and sovereignty of the beloved motherland will remain unforgettable, Prof Yunus said, adding, “The void left by such a great, visionary and truly patriotic leader can never be filled”.

“In this time of mourning, I earnestly call upon all of you to pray, from your respective positions, to Almighty Allah for the forgiveness of the departed soul of Begum Khaleda Zia,” he said. Urging all to remain united “in this difficult time for the nation”, the Chief Adviser said, “We must remain united. I urge everyone to remain vigilant so that no one can exploit this moment of grief to create instability or carry out acts of sabotage”. “It is very important for all of us to play our responsible role during this time,” Prof Yunus added.