United News of Bangladesh

A civic condolence meeting in memory of late BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia will be held on Friday at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. The memorial, organised by civil society, will begin at 2:30pm, organisers said at a press conference at the Krishibid Institution in the capital on Thursday noon. Speaking, on behalf of the organisers, Professor Mahbub Ullah said the memorial is not a party-political event. “It is not organised by any political party. But philosophically every human action has some connection with politics. In that sense, this event is political and not political at the same time,” he said. Mahbub Ullah said no political party leader will speak from the stage. “Instead, prominent figures from different professions, including researchers, religious representatives, doctors, teachers, and representatives from hill communities, will deliver speech. Political parties have been invited as guests and will sit in the audience,” he said. The noted professor said a large number of people have expressed shock and tributes since Khaleda Zia’s passing on December 30. “This is why civil society has taken the initiative. It is a solemn event and maintaining dignity is very important.” Organisers said BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and members of Khaleda Zia’s family have been invited and are expected to attend. Guests from diplomatic missions and representatives from various professional bodies have also been invited. Entry gates will open at 12:30pm. Khaleda Zia died while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital on 30 December. She was buried the following day with state honours beside the grave of President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Organisers announced strict rules for the memorial meeting. No selfies will be allowed, no applause, and no standing during the programme. Entry without an invitation card is prohibited. But, an alternative verification desk will be available for invited guests who may forget their cards. On live coverage, organisers said BTV will broadcast the event live and other channels will be able to take feeds from there. Separate media booths have been set up for electronic, print and online media. Wi-Fi, transmission towers and other technical facilities will be provided for journalists.