Bangladesh has declared a three-day period of national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The mourning began on Wednesday and will continue until Friday, according to a Cabinet Division notification issued after an advisory council meeting on Tuesday. The government expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the three-time prime minister, describing her as a steadfast leader in the movement to restore democracy.

During the mourning period, national flags will be flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, educational establishments, and private buildings across the country, as well as at Bangladesh missions abroad. On Friday, special prayers will be held in mosques for the forgiveness of her soul, and other religious institutions will also organize prayers for her peace.

Khaleda Zia had been receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka since November 23. Her condition had been critical, and after 40 days of treatment, doctors declared her dead at 6 a.m. on Tuesday at the age of 80.