Nation bereft of a great guardian when most needed: CA

The head of interim government, Prof Muhammad Yunus, expressed profound sorrow at the death of BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, a three-time former Prime Minister and symbol of democratic movement, when her guardianship was most needed.
He urges everyone to stay "vigilant so no one can attempt instability or sabotage" during this period of mourning over the death of the "great guardian".
A 3-day state mourning has been declared by the government on the demise of the ex-premier. The government declared public holiday for today (Wednesday).
"Her funerals and burial will all be done in full state honours," the CA's press secretary said after a government meeting on Tuesday afternoon.
In a condolence message, the Chief Adviser of the post-uprising government said on the day that with the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, the nation has lost a great guardian. "I am deeply saddened and grief-stricken by her death."
Professor Yunus stated that Begum Khaleda Zia was not merely the leader of a political party--she represented an important chapter in the history of Bangladesh.
Considering her contributions, her long struggle, and the deep public sentiment towards her, the government declared her a Very, Very Important Person of the State earlier this month.
The Chief Adviser recalls her role in the struggle to establish democracy, a multiparty political culture, and the rights of the people in Bangladesh and says she will be remembered forever.
"Through her uncompromising leadership, the nation was repeatedly freed from undemocratic conditions and inspired to regain liberty. The nation will remember her contributions to the country and its people with respect."
Despite political differences, her long political journey dedicated to national welfare, her people-oriented leadership, and her firm resolve always showed the way. With her death, the country has lost an experienced and proven stateswoman.
The Chief Adviser notes that three-time former Prime Minister Begum Zia was Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister and the Chairperson of the BNP who led the struggle to restore democracy against autocracy.
He recalls that after the death of her husband-former President, Army Chief and valiant freedom fighter Ziaur Rahman-Begum Zia entered politics in 1982. Her strong leadership played a decisive role in bringing to an end the nine-year-long autocratic rule of HM Ershad.
The Chief Adviser said that many of Begum Khaleda Zia's actions and decisions had moved the country forward. She introduced free education and stipends for girls, which is considered a milestone in the advances of women education in Bangladesh.
Begum Khaleda Zia was immensely successful in her political life and was never defeated in any election. In the general elections from 1991 to 2001, she was elected from five different parliamentary constituencies. In 2008, she contested three seats and won all of them.
"After being elected Prime Minister in 1991, she laid a strong foundation for the country's economy through economic liberalisation."
He further states that during Sheikh Hasina's fascist rule, Begum Khaleda Zia stood as a unique symbol of struggle and resistance. Her uncompromising stance greatly inspired the nation throughout a long period of struggle.
"Because of her political success, Zia became a victim of extreme political vengeance. She was sentenced to 17 years in prison in false and fabricated cases and had to endure long periods of incarceration."
The Chief Adviser expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family of Begum Zia and to the leaders and activists of her party.
He calls upon the people of the country to remain calm and patient, and requested everyone to pray and offer supplications for Khaleda from their respective positions.
Meanwhile, in an address to the nation, Prof Yunus said, "Three days of state mourning will be observed following the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia."
In addition, a public holiday has been declared for Wednesday for her funerals.
"Following the death of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, I have declared three days of state mourning and a one-day public holiday for tomorrow on the day of her namaz-e-janaza."
The grieving Chief Adviser said, "Today, our entire nation stands silent in deep grief and sorrow. A towering leader of the country's democratic politics, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is no longer among us…"
At this moment of profound grief, he conveys, on behalf of the entire nation, heartfelt condolences to Khaleda Zia's family members, political colleagues, and countless activists and supporters. "I pray to Almighty Allah to grant all of us the strength to overcome this deep sorrow."
In his address to the nation, the Chief Adviser further said Khaleda Zia was a supremely illustrious figure in Bangladesh's politics. "Her extraordinary role in the struggle for democracy, a multiparty political culture, and the establishment of people's rights will remain indelible in history.
Her uncompromising leadership against autocracy and fascism repeatedly showed the nation a path out of undemocratic situations and inspired liberation. Her radiant contributions to the country and the nation will always be remembered with reverence."
Khaleda Zia's long political journey, people-oriented leadership, and her steadfast role in upholding the independence and sovereignty of the beloved motherland will remain unforgettable.
The head of interim government urges all to remain united during this difficult time for the nation. "I urge everyone to stay vigilant so that no one can attempt instability or sabotage during this period of mourning. Responsible conduct from all of us is absolutely essential."
He also calls upon everyone to maintain discipline during all mourning observances, including Khaleda Zia's funeral prayer.
"I know you are all deeply emotional at this time. I hope that you will show patience during this period of grief and cooperate with all concerned in performing her janaza and related formalities. May Almighty Allah grant us all patience, strength, and the ability to remain united."
Earlier in the day, a special meeting of the Advisory Council was held at the state guesthouse Jamuna, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
At the outset of the meeting, a one-minute silence was observed in standing position in memory of Begum Zia, followed by prayers seeking forgiveness for her soul. The prayer was led by Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain.
The meeting decided on the three-day state mourning starting Wednesday and a one-day public holiday on Wednesday.
A condolence motion on the death of Khaleda Zia was adopted at the meeting, which was read out by Adviser for Environment, Forest and Climate Change and Information Rizwana Hasan.
During the three days of mourning, the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government and autonomous institutions, educational institutions, all government and non-government buildings, and Bangladesh missions abroad.
Special prayers and supplications will be arranged at every mosque in the country seeking forgiveness for the departed soul. Special prayers will also be held at places of worship of other religions.
The meeting also decided that condolence books will be opened at Bangladesh missions abroad following the former prime minister's death.
At the meeting, Chief Adviser Yunus said the government would extend all kinds of cooperation regarding the funeral and burial of Begum Zia.
"Today we have gathered together in a time of deep sorrow. The entire nation had been praying for Begum Khaleda Zia so that she might remain with us for many more years. We pray for the forgiveness of her soul. On behalf of the nation, we extend our condolences to her family. The government will provide all necessary assistance for her burial and janaza."
Recalling memories, the Chief Adviser said, "I last met her on 21 November on the Armed Forces Day. She was very cheerful that day. She spoke with me for quite some time and inquired about my health and my wife's health. She herself was unwell, yet she was concerned about everyone's wellbeing.
"She was with us. At this crucial time for the nation, when we all must remain united, her presence was deeply needed. Her passing is a great loss for the nation."

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