Khaleda Zia fought for democracy until her last day: Amir Khasru
Amir Khasru made the remarks as the chief guest at a condolence meeting and doa mahfil organised by the Chattogram Ma-O-Shishu Hospital this afternoon, seeking forgiveness for the hospital’s land allotter and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
CHATTOGRAM, Jan 15 2026 (BSS) – BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury today praised Begum Khaleda Zia for her unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country's independence, sovereignty, and democracy.
He said, "She never compromised on the issue of democracy and continued to fight for it until the end of her life."
Amir Khasru made the remarks as the chief guest at a condolence meeting and doa mahfil organised by the Chattogram Ma-O-Shishu Hospital this afternoon, seeking forgiveness for the hospital's land allotter and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Hospital Executive Committee President Syed Mohammad Morshed Hossain presided over the meeting, while Joint General Secretary Zahidul Hasan moderated it. City Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain also addressed the programme as the keynote speaker.
The programme featured recitation from the Holy Qur'an, special prayers and supplications for the eternal peace of the late Begum Khaleda Zia.
Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury highlighted Begum Khaleda Zia's historic role in the struggle for democracy in Bangladesh following the martyrdom of President Ziaur Rahman. "Despite being an ordinary housewife, she led people to the streets against tyranny, leaving a lasting impact on the country's history," he added.
"In 1991, she was elected the first female Prime Minister with the people's mandate and remained steadfast in safeguarding democracy, human rights, and the integrity of the electoral process in the years that followed," Khasru said.
He emphasised that Begum Khaleda Zia consistently prioritised the well-being of the people – regardless of political affiliation – even during times of crisis. In her final days, she remained committed to the country's security and peace.
Khasru described Begum Khaleda Zia as a towering figure in Bangladesh's political landscape, noting her exceptional dedication to humanitarian causes and democratic values.
Dr Shahadat Hossain said Begum Khaleda Zia facilitated the allocation of land for several institutions in Chattogram – including USTC, the Diabetic Hospital, and the Kidney Hospital – which continue to play a vital role in providing healthcare services to city residents.
He added that, under her leadership, an ICU was established at Chattogram Medical College Hospital, while an oval machine was installed in the cancer department – further strengthening healthcare facilities in the region.
Begum Khaleda Zia will be remembered forever in the history of Bangladesh and in the hearts of its people.
Israfil Khasru – a member of the BNP International Affairs Sub-Committee – attended the programme as a special guest. Dr Kamrun Nahar Dastagir, Vice-President (Donor) of the hospital's Executive Committee, delivered the welcome address.
