Khaleda Zia fought for people's rights and democracy: Jamaat Ameer Shafiqur
Shafiqur also paid tribute to Sharif Osman Hadi, describing him as an uncompromising fighter against authoritarianism
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman paid a sombre tribute today (30 December) to the late BNP chairperson and three-time prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her as a lifelong warrior for democracy and people's rights.
"Today, she has departed from this world. We pray to Allah to grant her mercy and bestow patience upon her family, loved ones, and colleagues," he said while speaking at a direct exchange and Q&A session, titled "Hello Our Leader", at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon.
During his address, he also paid tribute to slain Inqilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Hadi, describing him as an uncompromising fighter against authoritarianism.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Calling on the youth to follow his example, he said, "Just as he stood firm, you too must stand up for Bangladesh and say, 'I am Hadi'."
He said that from January 2009 to 5 August 2024, the country had remained under fascist rule, where political opponents were the primary targets. "But in truth, no one was spared. We protested repeatedly, attempted resistance and launched movements, yet we failed to bring fascism to an end," he said.
Referring to Hadi as the latest martyr, Shafiqur said he had been closely connected with the youth during turbulent times and inspired many through his voice. "Those who could not tolerate the restoration of people's rights or see Bangladesh stand tall with dignity are the ones who removed him from this world," he alleged.
"Had he [Hadi] lived, he would have done much good for the nation. Yet by leaving at such a young age with his head held high and an uncompromising voice, he has emerged as a global symbol," Shafiqur said.
Describing himself as a youth in mind, he said it was the responsibility of the current leadership to build a dignified, safe and self-reliant Bangladesh alongside the youth.
He added that Jamaat had released a "People's Manifesto" to incorporate public ideas, proposals and aspirations into its future vision.
