Bangladesh has announced three days of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Chief Adviser of the government, Muhammad Yunus, declared a public holiday on Wednesday, the day of Khaleda Zia’s funeral prayers, along with three days of national mourning.
In a televised address, Yunus said that with Khaleda Zia’s passing, the nation has lost a guardian. He described her as a deeply influential figure in Bangladesh’s politics, stating that her extraordinary role in the struggle for democracy, the establishment of a multiparty political culture, and advocacy for the rights of the people will remain indelibly recorded in history.
Highlighting her steadfast leadership against autocracy and fascism, Yunus said she repeatedly guided the nation through undemocratic crises and that the country will always remember her contributions with deep respect. Khaleda Zia, who had long been suffering from multiple health conditions including liver and kidney disease, diabetes, and eye problems, passed away this morning at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment.
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