Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG) Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. File Photo

DHAKA, Jan 7, 2026 (BSS) - Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG) Shirley 
Ayorkor Botchwey has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Bangladesh's 
three-time former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. 

In a written condolence message addressed to Chief Adviser of the interim 
government Dr Muhammad Yunus, the Secretary-General conveyed her sympathies, 
which were sent to the Bangladesh High Commission in London on Wednesday.

"It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of Begum Khaleda 
Zia, former Prime Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh," she said.

On behalf of the Commonwealth Botchwey extended her deepest condolences to 
Khaleda Zia's family and to the people of Bangladesh during this period of 
national mourning.

Describing Khaleda Zia as a towering figure and a guiding force in 
Bangladesh's political landscape, the Commonwealth Chief said she overcame 
numerous challenges while serving as the country's first woman prime 
minister.

She noted that Khaleda Zia's three terms in office reflected her unwavering 
commitment to the welfare of the Bangladeshi people.

The Secretary-General added that Khaleda Zia's contributions extended beyond 
Bangladesh, as she served as an inspiration for women's leadership across 
South Asia and throughout the Commonwealth.

She concluded the message by requesting the Chief Adviser to accept her 
deepest condolences and highest respect on the death of Begum Khaleda Zia.