A mother of infinite courage and love: Tarique Rahman remembers Khaleda Zia
Staff Reporter :
In a deeply emotional post on his official social media account, Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), announced the passing of his mother, Begum Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the BNP. She “responded to the call of Almighty Allah and left us today,” he wrote, marking the end of an era in Bangladesh’s political history.
In his heartfelt message, Tarique Rahman described Khaleda Zia as more than just a political figure. “To many, she was the leader of the nation, an uncompromising leader, the Mother of Democracy, the Mother of Bangladesh. Today, the country mourns the loss of a guiding presence that shaped its democratic aspirations,” he wrote, reflecting on the profound impact his mother had on the nation’s political landscape.
A Personal Loss
Tarique Rahman also shared the deep personal grief he felt at the loss of his mother, describing her as “a tender and loving mother who devoted her entire life to the country and its people.” He expressed that Khaleda Zia’s life was one of relentless dedication to the nation, noting that she “stood firm against autocracy, fascism, and domination, leading the struggle for freedom, sovereignty, and the restoration of democracy.”
He also revealed the quieter side of his mother’s life, explaining that while her public life was defined by sacrifice and struggle, her private life was one of nurturing love and strength. “At home, she was our truest guardian, a mother whose infinite love gave us strength in our darkest moments,” he said.
Unyielding Resilience
The BNP leader recalled the challenges his mother faced throughout her political career, including repeated arrests, denial of medical care, and relentless persecution. Despite the pain and adversity she endured, Khaleda Zia’s courage and resilience remained unshakable. “Her resilience was not loud, but it was unbreakable,” Tarique Rahman remarked. “Even amid pain, confinement, and uncertainty, she never stopped sheltering her family with courage and compassion.”
Tarique Rahman also highlighted the personal sacrifices Khaleda Zia made for her country. “For the country, she lost her husband; she lost her child. In that loss, this nation and its people became her family, her purpose, her very soul,” he wrote, honoring her devotion and sacrifice.
A Legacy of Patriotism and Resistance
Tarique Rahman concluded his emotional message by acknowledging the profound legacy his mother leaves behind. He noted that Khaleda Zia’s legacy is one of patriotism, sacrifice, and resistance. “Her legacy will live on in the democratic conscience of Bangladesh,” he said, adding that her unyielding commitment to democracy and the welfare of the people would continue to inspire future generations.
In his closing remarks, he appealed to the public for prayers, asking them to “pray for my mother.” He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Bangladesh and the global community for the love and respect shown to his mother throughout her life and especially in her passing. “For the profound emotion, love, and respect shown by the people of this country and by the world, my family and I remain eternally grateful.”
The country, as well as political leaders from various factions, have expressed their condolences following the passing of Khaleda Zia, acknowledging her monumental role in Bangladesh’s political history. Her death marks a significant moment in the nation’s history, leaving an indelible mark on both her family and the political landscape she shaped.