BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. File Photo

DHAKA, Dec 30, 2025 (BSS) - The Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) today expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

In a condolence message today, the Election Commission said Begum Khaleda Zia was an influential and important figure in the democratic politics of Bangladesh, while she took charge as the country's first female prime minister after the restoration of parliamentary democracy in 1991.

The message noted that she was elected prime minister for two more terms in 1996 and 2001, and that throughout her political career she played a significant role in promoting multiparty democracy, constitutional governance and political participation.

The EC said Khaleda Zia was also active in parliamentary politics for a long time as an opposition leader and played an uncompromising role in the restoration of democracy.

"Her political role in the development of the electoral process and democratic institutions will be remembered in the history of the country," the message added.

The Election Commission prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed its deep condolences to her bereaved family and colleagues.