Bangladesh is marking the 82nd birthday of late BNP former chairperson and three-time prime minister Khaleda Zia on August 15. This year’s observances are being held without her presence after she died while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital on December 30 last year. Party offices and mosques across the country are arranging milad and prayer gatherings in her memory.

A milad and prayer event is scheduled for Saturday morning at the BNP central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka, with senior party leaders expected to attend. Another programme is planned in the afternoon at the T&T field in the Korail area of Mohakhali, featuring prayers and distribution of assistance among poor and vulnerable people. Prime Minister and BNP chairman Tarique Rahman is listed as the chief guest.

Khaleda Zia entered active politics after the killing of Ziaur Rahman and became BNP vice chairperson in 1983 and chairperson in 1984. She led opposition to military rule and served three terms as prime minister. Her political life included imprisonment, illness and prolonged political adversity, leaving a deep mark on Bangladesh’s politics.