Bangladesh has bid a sad farewell to the former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in a state funeral attended by huge crowds. The nation mourned the loss of a leader who played a major role in shaping the country’s political history.
Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80. She was the first woman prime minister of Bangladesh and served the country for many years. Her death marked the end of an important chapter in Bangladesh’s politics.
National flags were flown at half-mast across the country as a sign of respect. Thousands of security personnel were deployed in the capital, Dhaka, to manage the large crowds. Her coffin, wrapped in the national flag, was carried through the city in a solemn procession.
The main funeral prayers were held near Bangladesh’s parliament building. From early morning, people gathered on Manik Mia Avenue to pay their last respects. Men, women, and elderly citizens stood quietly, many with tears in their eyes, remembering the former leader.
People came not only from Dhaka but also from nearby cities and towns. Some were longtime supporters, while others simply wanted to honor a national figure. Many described Khaleda Zia as a strong and determined leader who left a lasting impact on the country.
Among the mourners was Minhaz Uddin, a 70-year-old retired government officer. He said he had never voted for Khaleda Zia, yet still felt it was important to attend her funeral. He came with his grandson to say goodbye to a leader he believed would always be remembered for her contributions.
The funeral showed how deeply Khaleda Zia influenced Bangladesh, even among those who did not share her political views. As the prayers ended, the crowd slowly dispersed, leaving behind a quiet sense of loss.
Bangladesh now remembers Khaleda Zia as a historic figure whose leadership will remain part of the nation’s story for generations to come.