Citizens' condolence meeting in memory of Khaleda Zia underway

BSS

Published On: 16 Jan 2026, 16:52 Updated On:16 Jan 2026, 20:13

A citizens' condolence gathering in memory of three-time former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia held at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 16, 2026 (BSS) - A citizens' condolence gathering in memory of three-time former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is currently underway in the city.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is present at this civic gathering at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building with his family, including wife Zubaida Rahman, daughter Zaima Rahman, and late brother Arafat Rahman Koko's wife Sharmila Rahman.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is present at this civic gathering at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building with his family. Photo: BSS

This pre-scheduled condolence meeting commenced with the recitation of the holy Quran at 3:05 PM, following Tarique Rahman's arrival at the venue. The eulogy was presented by Saleh Uddin, Executive Editor of the daily Ittefaq.

Senior BNP leaders, including members of the party's Standing Committee, have joined this civic condolence gathering organized in memory of Khaleda Zia. Diplomats from various countries accredited to Bangladesh are also present at the event.

Invited guests started arriving at the venue, the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building on Manik Miah Avenue in the capital, after noon. Invitation cards were sent to guests in advance. No one is being allowed entry without an invitation card.

No political party leaders will deliver speeches from the stage at the condolence gathering. However, distinguished citizens, researchers, doctors, teachers, religious representatives, representatives of hill communities, and leaders from various professions will deliver condolence messages.

Security is being provided by members of various law enforcement agencies including the army, police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Coast Guard, and Ansar, surrounding the condolence gathering. Members of various intelligence agencies are also on security duty.

Security has been strengthened as the number of people at the venue increases. Leaders and workers of BNP's various wings and associate organizations are responsible for maintaining order at the event.

Khaleda Zia, BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, passed away on December 30 last year while undergoing treatment in a hospital. She was buried at Zia Udyan with state honors the following day.