Hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on Wednesday to mourn the death of Khaleda Zia, the country's first female prime minister, who died on Tuesday at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Mourners from across Bangladesh traveled to the capital to pay their final respects as a motorcade carrying Zia's body, draped in the national flag, proceeded through streets near the parliament house.

Flags flew at half-mast as thousands of security officers were deployed to manage the crowds. Setara Sultana, an activist from Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), told the BBC, "I have come this far just to say goodbye. I know I won't be able to see her face, but at least I could see the vehicle carrying her for the last rites."

Zia's career marked a significant moment for women in Bangladeshi politics, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations. Sharmina Siraj, a mother of two, described Zia as "an inspiration," highlighting the stipends introduced by Zia's government that supported women's education and empowerment.

Khaleda Zia served as prime minister for three terms, beginning in 1991. Her political career was marked by both successes and controversies, including allegations of corruption, which she consistently denied. She was a key figure in the BNP, a party she led for many years following the assassination of her husband, President Ziaur Rahman, in 1981.

Zia's death comes at a time of political tension in Bangladesh, with the BNP playing a significant role in the opposition. Her legacy as a female leader in a traditionally patriarchal society remains a subject of debate, but her impact on the political landscape of Bangladesh is undeniable. The state funeral was held with full honors, reflecting her status as a former head of state. Further political developments are expected as the BNP navigates its future without its long-standing leader.