BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. Photo : Collected

JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Dec 30, 2025 (BSS) - Vice-Chancellor (VC) of 
Jahangirnagar University (JU) Professor Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan today 
expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of former Prime Minister and BNP 
Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

Begum Khaleda Zia, a three-time elected former prime minister, passed away at 
around 6:00 am today while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in the 
capital.

In a condolence message, he said the nation has lost an eminent guardian and 
a towering stateswoman with the death of Begum Khaleda Zia. 

The VC termed her demise as the departure of a legend in the history of 
Bangladesh, adding that the void created by her passing would never be 
filled.

Dr Kamrul Ahsan said Begum Khaleda Zia earned the title of "Aposhhin 
Deshnetri" (the uncompromising national leader) from the countrymen for her 
role in the anti-autocracy movement. From an ordinary housewife, she rose to 
become the leader of millions in response to the demands of time, symbolizing 
national unity, he added.

The VC noted that Begum Khaleda Zia upheld liberal aspirations and democratic 
values throughout her political life and remained steadfast in protecting the 
rights of the country, its soil and people. 

Begum Khaleda Zia was a unique source of inspiration in personal conduct and 
social values, and remained courageous and vocal in safeguarding 
independence, sovereignty and national interests, he continued.

Quoting her address to the nation following the post-2024 mass uprising, Dr 
Kamrul Ahsan recalled her call to rebuild a prosperous Bangladesh from the 
ruins of destroyed democracy. 

He said she left behind a message of unity rooted in tolerance, restraint, 
love, peace and knowledge, rejecting destruction and revenge.

The JU Vice-Chancellor extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family 
and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul of Begum Khaleda Zia.