Standing before an ocean of mourners on Manik Mia Avenue, Tarique Rahman on Wednesday made an emotional appeal to the nation, seeking prayers for the salvation of his mother, three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Addressing the gathering shortly before the funeral prayers, the BNP Acting Chairman spoke briefly but poignantly, his words heavy with personal loss.
“I am Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of the late Begum Khaleda Zia,” he said, introducing himself not as a political leader, but as a grieving son.
In a moment that moved many in the crowd, Tarique Rahman said if his mother had taken a loan from anyone during her lifetime, he was ready to repay it. “If the late Begum Khaleda Zia owed anything to any of you, please contact me. I will make arrangements to repay it, InshaAllah,” he said.
He also sought forgiveness on her behalf, appealing to those who may have been hurt by her words or actions. “If anyone was hurt by any of her deeds or statements while she was alive, I sincerely apologise to you on behalf of the deceased,” he said, urging everyone to forgive and remember her with compassion.
Concluding his address, Tarique Rahman requested the nation to pray for his mother’s eternal peace. “Please pray that Allah Almighty grants her Jannatul Ferdous,” he said.
As his voice faded into the vast silence of the gathering, thousands raised their hands in prayer — an emotional moment that reflected not only a family’s grief, but a nation bidding farewell to one of its most influential political figures.