Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister, Khaleda Zia, has passed away, prompting a heartfelt message of condolence from the country’s ousted Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina. In a post shared via the now-defunct official account of the Bangladesh Awami League, Hasina paid tribute to Zia’s enduring role in the nation’s democratic struggle and her significant contributions to Bangladesh.
The post, titled “Condolences on Khaleda Zia’s Death”, described Zia’s passing as an “irreplaceable loss” to Bangladeshi politics and the leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Sheikh Hasina extended her prayers for Zia’s soul and expressed her deepest sympathies to her family, particularly her son, Tarique Rahman, and the party’s supporters.
In her message, Hasina wrote:
“I pray that Allah grants them patience and strength to face this difficult time.”
The political rivalry between Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina has been one of the most defining features of Bangladesh’s post-independence history. Together, the two women held the office of Prime Minister for a combined total of three decades out of the country’s 54 years of independence. Their fierce competition often drew international attention, with foreign media dubbing it “The Battle of the Two Begums”.
Prime Ministers’ Tenure at a Glance:
| Name | Terms in Office | Duration | Party |
|---|---|---|---|
| Khaleda Zia | 1991–1996, 2001–2006 | 10 years | Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) |
| Sheikh Hasina | 1996–2001, 2009–2023 | 17 years | Bangladesh Awami League (AL) |
Following last year’s popular uprising that led to her ousting, Sheikh Hasina has been residing in India. Despite their political rivalry, her message highlighted a sense of respect for Khaleda Zia’s dedication to Bangladesh and her legacy in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Political analysts note that while the rivalry between the two leaders was often intense, both women were instrumental in defining Bangladesh’s parliamentary politics, establishing themselves as formidable figures in South Asian political history.
Sheikh Hasina’s condolence message underscores not only the personal loss felt in Bangladeshi politics but also the enduring impact of Khaleda Zia’s life on the country’s democratic journey.