The government has announced three days of state mourning following the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. In addition, Wednesday has been declared a public holiday to mark her funeral prayers.

The announcement was made on Tuesday afternoon by Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, in an address to the nation. He said that the decision was taken in honor of the late former prime minister, including a nationwide holiday on the day of her janaza.

Professor Yunus stated that the entire nation is united in grief, noting that Bangladesh has lost one of its most prominent democratic leaders. Expressing deep sorrow, he said Khaleda Zia’s passing marks the loss of a respected national guardian and offered condolences on behalf of the nation to her family, political colleagues, and countless supporters. He also prayed for strength for the people to endure this moment of mourning.

In his speech, the Chief Adviser described Khaleda Zia as a towering figure in Bangladesh’s political history. He said her contributions to democracy, multiparty politics, and the struggle for citizens’ rights would remain permanently etched in the nation’s history. Her firm stance against authoritarianism, he added, repeatedly inspired the country’s return to democratic values.

Professor Yunus further noted that Khaleda Zia’s long political career, people-centered leadership, and unwavering commitment to protecting Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty would always be remembered with deep respect by the nation.