By: Dr Humayer Chowdhury: Begum Khaleda Zia was one of the most respected political leaders in the history of Bangladesh. Her life reflected strong dedication to democracy, national independence, and love for her motherland. Through courage and sacrifice, she played an important role in shaping democratic values in the country.
She entered politics during a difficult time, after the assassination of her husband, Shahid President Ziaur Rahman. Instead of choosing a quiet life, she stepped forward to protect democratic ideals and national stability. In a male-dominated political environment, her leadership showed strength, determination, and confidence.
Begum Khaleda Zia made a major contribution to the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh. During the struggle against authoritarian rule in the late 1980s and early 1990s, and during 17 years autocratic regime of tyran Sheikh Hasina she led mass movements that helped bring back parliamentary democracy. Her leadership proved her belief that power should come from the people through free and fair elections.
As Prime Minister, she supported democratic institutions, a multi-party system, and constitutional governance. She always emphasized national sovereignty and worked for the welfare of the country. Her policies reflected patriotism and a strong desire to protect Bangladesh’s independence and dignity.
Throughout her political life, Begum Khaleda Zia made many personal sacrifices. She faced imprisonment, political pressure, and health challenges, yet she never gave up her commitment to democracy. Her sacrifices strengthened her image as a leader who puts the nation above personal comfort.
Begum Khaleda Zia’s contribution to democracy and her patriotic spirit have left a lasting impact on Bangladesh. Her courage, sacrifices, and dedication continue to inspire people to value freedom, justice, and love for the motherland.
The title “Very Important Person” given by interim government is only an official label.
True importance is not given by the state—it is earned through sacrifice and service.
In the last 35 to 40 years of Bangladesh’s history, no one has played a more important role than Begum Khaleda Zia.
At times when the country faced serious danger, her strong determination, clear vision, and deep love for Bangladesh stood firm. Because of her courage and commitment, Bangladesh was protected from losing its independence and dignity.
When she said, “Save the country, save the people,”
many comfortable and powerful voices laughed and ignored her warning.
When she said, “They hold the chains of slavery; we hold the flag of freedom,”
those who benefited from submission mocked her words.
But the people understood.
Every Bangladeshi knows—then, now, and in the future—that Begum Khaleda Zia loved Bangladesh and its people more than her own comfort, more than her own family, and more than her own life.
Some partnerships are divinely ordained, created by the Almighty for a specific and purposeful mission.
The partnership of Ziaur Rahman and Khaleda Zia was truly a blessing for Bangladesh.
One gave the nation its independence through the call of “We Revolt.”
The other protected that independence with strength, patience, and courage.
By the mercy of Allah, our flag and our land were saved again and again.
Begum Khaleda Zia—
you were not just a political leader.
You were a symbol of Bangladesh’s strength and spirit, you were the idel of Bangladesh and so
You were the crown on the head of Bangladesh.
Throughout your life, you thought only of the good of this country, betterment of the people.
No cruelty, no injustice, and no evil force could weaken your courage or your love for Bangladesh.
In the final chapter of your life, even as the cruelty of tyranny intensified—when false charges imprisoned you and brutal physical torture shattered your body—you never surrendered your principles. Writhing in pain, you still stood unyielding, rising to become the jewel of the nation’s heart.
When before your very eyes a son dearer than life itself was taken from you, and another was forced into exile, leaving you alone—still you thundered with unwavering resolve:
“i belong to this country, its people are mine, i will remain in this land; I will merge with this soil, i will meet my end among my people.”
Such boundless love for the country and for its people is what crowned you with the honor of a truly great woman, elevating you as the guardian of an entire nation.
Though your passing has left every heart in the country filled with pain and sorrow, the honor, dignity, and completeness with which Almighty Allah took you from this world will remain our guiding strength, Insha’Allah.
With sincere faith, I pray to Allah, the Lord of all worlds:
May He grant you the foremost place in eternal life—Jannatul Firdaus.