Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni spoke at Jatiya Nattyashala auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy during the book publication programme. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Sept 4, 2026 (BSS) - Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni has said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia chose Bangladesh as her only home and did not leave the country with her two sons during the previous regime.

The chief whip made the remarks as chief guest at a programme organised to mark the publication of the book 'Sudhu Madhabir Jonno', written by Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Asaduzzaman. 

The programme was held at the Jatiya Nattyashala auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy this afternoon.

Appreciating the book, Moni said its author had rightly highlighted Begum Zia's decision to remain in the country during the previous regime. 

He said the writer had also expressed aspirations for protecting the country and democracy.

Speaking at the event, Law Minister Asaduzzaman said he writes not merely to be an author but to express his inner feelings.

"I write to Madhabi, a fictitious name, about my everyday turmoil, sorrow, joy and the pain of being ignored and neglected. Whenever these feelings torment me, I write," he said.

Being a politician, this book has drawn huge response in the society compared to any other writers in recent time, said Attorney General Md Ruhul Quddus Kazal.

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury and former BNP lawmaker Shirin Sultana attended the programme as special guests.

Novelist, poet and filmmaker Sadat Hossain joined the event as discussant, while Advocate Shimul Parvin, founder-president of the literary and cultural organisation Protidhoni, also spoke.

Artist Biwajit Chakrabarty, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General and poet Rezauddin Ahmed Stalin and Durba Group Chairman AQMD Ahmed Suman were also present.

The programme featured cultural performances, including the national anthem and was attended by poets, artists and other distinguished cultural personalities.