Tarique thanks nation, govt, int’l community as 3-day mourning ends
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Bangladesh, the interim government and the international community as the three-day national mourning period for former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia concluded.
In a message issued at the end of the mourning, Tarique Rahman said his family had been deeply moved by the overwhelming outpouring of condolences, prayers and tributes from across the country and abroad.
He said the past three days revealed how Khaleda Zia meant different things to different people, often in ways even her own family had not fully realised.
“To many, she came to symbolise the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs and remain steadfast despite hardship,” he said, noting that her legacy extended far beyond politics and resonated with people from all walks of life.
Tarique Rahman conveyed special thanks to the interim government, particularly Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and his council of advisers, for what he described as swift coordination and leadership in arranging an honourable farewell for Khaleda Zia within a short time.
He also acknowledged the international community, neighbouring countries, diplomats, and global partners for their messages of sympathy and solidarity. The presence of foreign dignitaries at the funeral, condolence letters, official statements, entries in condolence books, and tributes shared on social media, he said, reflected the respect Khaleda Zia commanded at home and abroad.
Paying tribute to members of the armed forces, law-enforcement agencies, and civil administration, Tarique Rahman said his family was touched by their professionalism, care, and sense of duty throughout the funeral arrangements. He offered particular thanks to the President Guard Regiment for the guard of honour and final salute, saying the regiment ensured Khaleda Zia’s last journey was marked with dignity and national reverence.
He also acknowledged the contributions of many others who worked behind the scenes, noting that their efforts helped ensure the mourning period was observed smoothly and respectfully.
In an emotional note addressed to the public, Tarique Rahman said the sight of people from every corner of the country gathering to pay their respects was something the family had never anticipated. He described it as a powerful and unifying moment that reflected the compassion and shared humanity of the Bangladeshi people.
“On behalf of our family and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, we thank everyone who stood with us in grief and remembrance,” he said, adding that the solidarity shown during the mourning would remain a lasting source of comfort and strength for them.