Expressing deep sorrow over the death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, her elder son and the party’s Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, said that his mother devoted her whole life to the welfare of the country and its people.
He made the remarks in an emotional post on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon.
In his message, Tarique Rahman said that Begum Khaleda Zia was not only a political leader but also an enduring guide in Bangladesh’s democratic journey. The great leader passed away at 6:00 am on Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital, creating a huge void in the country’s politics.
In his post, Tarique Rahman described Begum Khaleda Zia as the “Mother of Democracy” and the “Mother of Bangladesh,” saying the nation has lost a guardian who fought throughout her life against autocracy, fascism, and authoritarianism. Recalling his mother’s sacrifices, he wrote that her leadership in the struggle to establish freedom, sovereignty, and democracy was uncompromising.
According to Tarique Rahman, beyond her political identity, she was a compassionate guardian of the family and a source of strength in the most difficult times. Despite repeated arrests, denial of proper medical treatment, and enduring long periods of imprisonment and repression, she never wavered in her indomitable courage and patriotism.
Highlighting the sacrifices in his mother’s personal life, Tarique Rahman said that in safeguarding the national interest, she lost her husband and was separated from her children.
To her, the country and its people were her true family and an integral part of her existence. He believes that the unforgettable legacy of public service and struggle she left for the people of the country will remain eternally remembered in Bangladesh’s democratic history. In this moment of grief, he described his mother’s ideals as a guiding light to instill patience and courage among every member of the family.
In the concluding part of his message, Tarique Rahman requested the people of the country to pray for his mother. He expressed his and his family’s eternal gratitude for the deep emotion, sincere love of the general public, and the respect being shown worldwide for Begum Khaleda Zia. He also sought the support and prayers of the nation to stand by the family and to join in bidding a final farewell to his mother.
