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, including a hearse wrapped in the national flag, proceeded through streets near the parliament house.
Flags were flown at half-mast, and thousands of security officers were deployed to manage the crowds. The outpouring of grief underscored Zia's significant impact on Bangladeshi politics and the lives of women in the country.
"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," said Setara Sultana, an activist from Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Sharmina Siraj, a mother of two, described Zia as "an inspiration," specifically noting stipends introduced by Zia's government that supported women's education and empowerment.
Khaleda Zia served as prime minister for three terms, navigating a political landscape often marked by rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, the current prime minister. Zia's rise to power in the early 1990s marked a pivotal moment for women in Bangladesh, demonstrating their capacity for leadership in a traditionally patriarchal society. While her tenure was marked by periods of economic growth, it also faced challenges related to corruption allegations and political instability. Her supporters credit her with championing democratic values and advocating for the rights of ordinary citizens.
Zia's death occurs during a period of political tension in Bangladesh, with the BNP playing a key role in the opposition. Her legacy as a female leader continues to resonate, particularly among women who saw her as a symbol of progress and empowerment. The state funeral provided an opportunity for many to reflect on her contributions and the ongoing struggle for women's rights and political participation in Bangladesh. The long-term impact of her death on the country's political landscape remains to be seen.
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