Civic memorial to mark the first death anniversary of Khaleda Zia

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A civic memorial service will be held on December 28 to commemorate the first death anniversary of former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia.

The event, organised by a civil society group, is scheduled to take place at the South Plaza of the Parliament Building. The president, prime minister, members of Khaleda's family, politicians, academics, intellectuals, journalists, professionals and cultural personalities are expected to attend.

BNP Media Cell member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed the initiative on Friday.

A special commemorative book will also be published for the occasion, highlighting Khaleda's life, political philosophy, professional experience, personality, leadership and contributions to the country. It will also cover lesser-known aspects of her life.

A group of politicians, journalists, writers, researchers, academics, economists, professionals and people who worked closely with Khaleda have been invited to contribute articles and analyses under the guidance of National Professor Mahbub Ullah. Submissions must be sent to nagorikshoronshova@gmail.com by November 30.

Khaleda died on December 30, 2025, while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Following her death, the BNP announced seven days of mourning, while the country observed three days of national mourning.

She had been hospitalised since November 23, 2025, suffering from several chronic health conditions, including liver and kidney complications, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis and infections.

Known as an “uncompromising leader” during the 1990 mass uprising, Khaleda spent much of her political career leading street protests. Despite being arrested and imprisoned, she remained in Bangladesh. She also maintained an unbroken record of never losing a parliamentary election in which she contested.