Tarique Rahman thanks officials, citizens for ‘historic farewell’ to Khaleda Zia

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has thanked everyone involved in the funeral prayers and burial of his mother, former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her final farewell as “historic” and saying it was carried out with “due dignity and respect for the people of the country”.

In a post published shortly before 7.15am on Thursday on his verified Facebook page, Rahman expressed gratitude to citizens as well as officials and institutions who helped organise the janaza and burial.

“In this time of deep grief, the empathy, respect and sense of responsibility you have shown has deeply touched our hearts,” he wrote, addressing the nation and those who performed duties during the funeral rites.

Rahman paid tribute to the armed forces — the army, navy and air force — along with security and law enforcement agencies. He also thanked the chief adviser, advisers from various ministries of the interim government, and members of the media for their roles in ensuring  the smooth conduct of the funeral proceedings.

Reflecting on the personal loss, he wrote: “Yesterday, in one of the most painful moments of my life, I was able to bid farewell to my mother. It was a historic farewell, completed with the appropriate honour and dignity befitting the people of this country.”

The acting BNP chairperson said such a farewell was made possible by the care, sense of duty and professionalism of all those involved. “To everyone whose dedication made this possible, I extend my heartfelt thanks,” he added.

Khaleda Zia, a three-time prime minister and one of the most influential figures in Bangladesh’s political history, was laid to rest on Wednesday following funeral prayers attended by hundreds of thousands of mourners from across the country.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com