Nation enters 3-day state mourning over Khaleda Zia’s death

A three-day state mourning began across Bangladesh on Wednesday following the death of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, a leading figure in the country’s democratic politics.

The mourning, starting on December 31, will continue until January 2, 2026, according to a notification issued by the Advisory Council on Tuesday (December 30).

On the first day of mourning, the national flag is being flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, autonomous and educational institutions, as well as at government and private buildings across the country and at Bangladesh missions abroad.

The notification said the government has expressed deep sorrow at the death of Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her as an uncompromising leader of the movement to restore democracy.

As part of the observance, special prayers will be offered on Friday (January 2) at mosques nationwide for the eternal peace of her departed soul. Special prayers will also be held at other places of worship in accordance with respective religious traditions.

Earlier, in a special address to the nation on Tuesday, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus announced the three-day state mourning and declared Wednesday a general holiday.