Tens of thousands of mourners converged on the Bangladeshi capital on Wednesday as the country held a state funeral for former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, drawing huge crowds to pay their final respects to the veteran leader.
Supporters, political figures and ordinary citizens from across Bangladesh filled the streets around the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament) and nearby avenues, many arriving early to join the funeral prayers.
Zia’s Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayer) was held with full national honours, and her flag-draped casket was escorted through the capital amid scenes of deep emotion and public mourning.
The three-time premier, who died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness, was a towering figure in Bangladeshi politics and the first woman to serve as the country’s prime minister.
Authorities deployed thousands of security personnel to manage the vast turnout and maintain order as crowds swelled around key locations, including the parliament area and streets leading to the funeral venue.
Attendees included senior politicians, diplomats and local residents, many waving national flags and banners in tribute to Zia’s long political career. Delegations from neighbouring countries were also present, reflecting the regional significance of the event.
Zia’s death has prompted three days of national mourning declared by the interim government, with the day of the funeral observed as a public holiday to allow citizens to participate in the farewell ceremonies
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