Representatives from across the social and political spectrum have urged the nation to remain united during this period of transition, invoking the late BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia’s “resolute” spirit and her enduring message of peace over vengeance.
The call for solidarity resonated throughout a civic memorial held at the South Plaza of parliament complex on Friday afternoon.
The gathering saw the participation of the former prime minister’ son and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with other family members, senior political figures, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Former chief justice Syed JR Mudassir Husain, who presided over the event, described the late leader as a "wise and true national stateswoman" whose political life, democratic stance, and personal sacrifices have secured her a distinguished place in the annals of history.
"We must all remember that unity cannot be forged through malice or falsehoods that create division among people," the former chief justice said.
He remarked that the nation must shed the "habit of lying" and the impulse for vengeance to move forward.
Reflecting on her “extraordinary fortitude”, he noted that even through personal grief and years of imprisonment on “vindictive charges”, she maintained patience and dignity.
The former chief justice added that her post-release remarks were "statesmanlike”, as she championed a society built on love rather than destruction.
"I firmly believe this should not merely be a political statement but the roar of the Bangladeshi state," he said, noting that a civilised nation chooses tolerance over retaliation.
Mahbub Ullah, chairman of the memorial preparation committee, said while the leader departed for the "eternal realm" on Dec 30, her patriotism and honesty would be remembered forever.
He recalled three of her "immortal maxims": "We have friends abroad, not masters"; "In our hands is the flag of independence, in theirs the shackles of captivity"; and "I have no address outside this country; this country is my final destination."
Interim government Advisor Asif Nazrul, expressed gratitude to the participants of the July Uprising, noting that Bangladeshis can now freely express both love and criticism.
"To keep Bangladesh well, we must internalise Khaleda Zia’s qualities -- she was honest, determined, self-sacrificing, and patriotic," he added.
New Age Editor Nurul Kabir issued a poignant warning to the political leadership to uphold their promises of democratic ideals.
"Do not do anything that would make the millions who gathered at her funeral sigh and say ‘She is better off dead so she does not have to see this’," he said.
Writer Faham Abdus Salam observed that a leader’s final transformation is from legal authority to moral authority, which is achieved through immense sacrifice.
He remarked that despite political errors common to all leaders, she never stood against the common people.
Basudeb Dhar, president of the Puja Udjapan Parishad, added that the history of the democratic struggle in Bangladesh is incomplete without her, noting her "constant presence" where rights were curtailed.
Former caretaker government advisor Raja Debashish Roy highlighted her recognition of village leaders in the Chattogram Hill Tracts during her tenure, including official recognition of the karbari role.
Writer-researcher Mohiuddin Ahmad divided her political life into phases, describing her rise during the anti-autocracy movement, her years in government and opposition, and a later period marked by struggle and victimisation.
He said her elegance and call for reconciliation, expressed in a video message after her release in August 2024, remained central to her legacy.
Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam recalled her respect for independent journalism and tolerance of dissent, while others highlighted her contributions to disability rights, foreign policy, economic reforms, industrial growth, pharmaceuticals, public service recruitment based on merit, and structural transformation of the economy.
SMA Faiz, former chairman of the Public Service Commission, said she ensured merit-based appointments without any political interference.
Economist Prof Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir credited her tenure with lifting millions out of poverty, achieving food self-sufficiency and initiating Bangladesh’s structural economic transformation towards industrialisation.
