BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia addressed her supporters for the first time since her imprisonment on corruption charges on February 8, 2018. The address came after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, during a rally at Naya Paltan in Dhaka on Wednesday, where thousands of BNP leaders and workers had gathered.
Khaleda Zia’s message was broadcasted from her hospital bed via video call, which elicited jubilation from the crowd, despite the anticipation of a video address from Tarique Rahman, the party’s acting chairman, who was in London.
In her speech, Khaleda Zia called for unity and peace, urging her party and supporters to focus on building a harmonious nation rather than seeking revenge. She emphasized, “No destruction, no revenge, no retaliation. Let us build a peaceful Bangladesh.”
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Since her release under a suspended sentence in 2020, Khaleda had been confined to her Gulshan home due to government restrictions and had not participated in political events. Her full release followed the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, though she has been in the hospital due to health issues.
Khaleda expressed gratitude for the efforts of those who fought against the previous government, stating, “Through prolonged struggle and resistance, we have freed ourselves from the fascist and illegitimate government. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our brave sons who, through their unwavering efforts, made the impossible possible.”
She also paid tribute to the martyrs and highlighted the need to build a prosperous Bangladesh from the remnants of corruption and democratic destruction. She stated, “We must build a prosperous Bangladesh from the ruins of unprecedented corruption and the destruction of democracy.”
Emphasizing the importance of the youth, Khaleda added, “Students and youths are our future. To fulfill their dreams, we need to create a talent and knowledge-based Bangladesh. We must ensure a prosperous and exploitation-free Bangladesh where the rights of all religions and communities are guaranteed.”
Khaleda concluded her speech by urging empowerment of the youth to build a future based on peace, progress, and equality.