Khaleda Zia’s fate was intertwined with Bangladesh’s: Fakhrul

The fate of former prime minister and former BNP chief Khaleda Zia had become intertwined with that of Bangladesh, BNP Secretary General and its presidential candidate Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said.

Speaking at a prayer session organised at the BNP central office in Dhaka's Naya Paltan today (15 August) to mark Khaleda Zia's 81st birth anniversary, Fakhrul said the late BNP chairperson had repeatedly led the country back to democracy through her struggles.

"She was born on this day and became intertwined with the fate of Bangladesh. She took part in and led the struggle to make Bangladesh prosperous," he said.

He added that Khaleda Zia had been the main architect behind transforming the BNP into a genuine political party.

"She struggled and fought for a long time and never compromised on matters of principle. She carried the party. Her work and inspiration continue to motivate us," he said.

"On this day, we will pledge to turn the BNP into a truly democratic party that will genuinely be capable of leading Bangladesh," he added.

Fakhrul said the BNP government would work to fulfil people's aspirations by implementing Khaleda Zia's Vision 2030 and the party's 31-point programme.

"We will strengthen the party and uphold Bangladesh's image," he said.

At the event, BNP Standing Committee Member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy said many had benefited from Khaleda Zia's leadership, but not everyone had stood by her during the struggle.

He said she had never held this against anyone, instead embracing everyone, forgiving their mistakes and giving them due respect.

He said the restoration of democracy was the outcome of Khaleda Zia's prolonged movement.

"Those who are now responsible for running the state will surely provide all-out cooperation and sound advice to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman," Gayeshwar said.