Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Jan 5, 2026 (BSS) - Homage continues to pour in at the grave of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson and three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.

Since morning, BNP leaders, activists, and people from all walks of life gathered at her grave in Zia Udyan at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar here. 

An emotional atmosphere envelops the site, with many standing in silent prayer for the late BNP chief. Others, unable to suppress their grief, openly wept, remembering the beloved leader. 

The gravesite has become a focal point of tribute and profound affection, uniting party members and ordinary citizens alike.

Following morning homage and doa (prayers) at the graves of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and Begum Khaleda Zia, BNP Standing Committee Member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan said Begum Khaleda Zia's name "will be written forever in Bangladesh's history." 

He emphasised how she, a housewife, rose to respond to the call of millions, dedicating her life to the welfare of the nation and the cause of democracy.

In the afternoon, Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, another BNP Standing Committee Member, offered his respects. 

He conveyed that with Begum Khaleda Zia's passing, the people of the country have lost a guardian, adding, "Today, the people of Bangladesh are deeply feeling her absence." 

Hossain underscored her invaluable contributions, stating, "Her love for the people, her role in the development of the country and her service to the people are still remembered with respect."

Bobby Hajjaj, BNP's Dhaka-13 constituency nominee, who also came to pay respects, hailed Begum Zia as "an icon of the entire Bangladesh." 

He affirmed, "Khaleda Zia was the heartbeat of the country's people, and the entire country is still mourning her loss."

A senior BNP leader from Daudkandi, Cumilla, shared, "Begum Khaleda Zia was not only the BNP leader but a symbol of democracy. Her uncompromising leadership will be remembered forever." 

A female supporter from Jatrabari emotionally stated, "Begum Zia used to talk to us, understand our pain. Today, standing in front of her grave, I feel like I have lost a member of my family." 

Young leader Robin Hossain noted, "I have learned a lot about politics from her. Today, the common people are feeling her absence," concluding that "The struggle of the leader Begum Khaleda Zia will inspire our future generations."

Beyond individual tributes, leaders and activists of BNP and its affiliated organisations collectively paid respects with wreaths and joined doa and supplications for the forgiveness of Khaleda Zia's departed soul. 

Law enforcement agencies implemented special security measures at Zia Udyan to ensure that all homage could be paid peacefully.