BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on Saturday said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was a unique example of uncompromising politics.
“When many compromised in difficult political realities or stepped aside under pressure, Begum Khaleda Zia never compromised for a moment—from the beginning to the end,” he said while addressing a civic mourning meeting in memory of Khaleda Zia at the International Convention Hall in the port city.
After entering politics, Khosru said, Khaleda Zia spent most of her life in political movements, often outside of power. “Although she was in power for only 10 to 11 years, she remained on the streets for nearly 30 years, continuing her struggle for democracy without compromise.”
Drawing comparisons with world leaders, Amir Khosru, also a BNP candidate for the Chattogram-11 constituency, said Khaleda Zia’s sacrifices stood alongside those of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who remained uncompromising throughout their lives.
“Although we could not fully understand the depth of her sacrifice during her lifetime, after her death we have realised how deeply she had made a place in the hearts of the people of Bangladesh,” he said.
Amir Khosru said Khaleda Zia lit the torch of democracy through her lifelong struggle and has now handed over that responsibility to Tarique Rahman. “This torch is extremely valuable, and we all must carry it forward,” he added.
Referring to the upcoming election scheduled for the 12th, Amir Khosru said the struggle for democracy might become more difficult in the post-election period.
“Many may think life will become easier after the election, but it will not. The fight for democracy does not end here. The post-election phase may be even more challenging,” he said, calling for unity to uphold Begum Khaleda Zia’s ideals.
The meeting, chaired by Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain, recalled the political life and contributions of Khaleda Zia.
Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain said the country must follow the path shown by Khaleda Zia to move forward.
“Her contributions to democracy, rule of law, justice and fundamental rights will inspire future generations,” he said.
Indian Assistant High Commissioner Dr Rajeev Ranjan said Khaleda Zia was a rare symbol of determination and unwavering faith in leadership.
“As the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, she achieved a unique place in history. She was a visionary statesman committed to democratic values and public service,” he said.
Consul General of Turkey Salauddin Kashem Khan, Vice-Chancellor of Chattogram Medical University Prof Dr Omar Faruk Yusuf, Principal of Chattogram Medical College Prof Dr Jashim Uddin, former principals Prof Dr Imran Bin Yunus and Prof Dr Siddique Ahmed Chowdhury, Premier University VC Prof Dr Nasrul Qadir, East Delta University VC Prof Dr Nazim Uddin, BNP Joint Organising Secretary and Chattogram-5 candidate Barrister Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury, among others, spoke at the event.