A sea of ​​people at the last farewell: Khaleda Zia's largest funeral in history

The funeral of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia has been completed with the largest participation of people in memory. The funeral, held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in the capital on Wednesday (December 31), has set a unique example in the political history of the country. The funeral, which began at 2 pm, ended at 3:05 pm. The funeral was led by Mufti Abdul Malek, Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque.

Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and other top leaders of various political parties were present at the funeral. In addition, diplomats from various friendly countries also participated in the funeral to pay their last respects to the former Prime Minister.

Long before the funeral, lakhs of people from different parts of the country started gathering in Manik Mia Avenue and its surrounding areas in the capital since dawn. The crowd spread to vast areas including Bijoy Sarani, Khamarbari Mor, Farmgate, Karwan Bazar, Panthapath, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Collegegate, Asadgate and Shahbag. People tried to participate in the funeral by standing wherever they got the opportunity, including on the roofs of buildings and overbridges.

Due to excessive crowding and pressure, many could not reach the funeral venue on time. Still, the flow of people did not stop until the last moment. This unprecedented presence proves that Begum Khaleda Zia, rising above political identity, had made a special and permanent place in the hearts of the people of the country.

As per the previous decision, Begum Khaleda Zia was buried with state honors next to the grave of BNP founder martyr President Ziaur Rahman at 3 pm after the funeral. Only family members, high-ranking government officials, state guests, and authorized persons were present to ensure the burial process went smoothly.