BNP supporters flock to Dhaka ahead of Khaleda Zia’s janaza

Bangla Press Desk:  BNP leaders and activists from different districts across the country are coming to Dhaka to take part in the namaz-e-janaza (funeral prayers) of former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia. 

They began setting out from Tuesday (30 December) afternoon. Hoping to catch a final glimpse of Khaleda Zia, party leaders and activists have started traveling to Dhaka using public transport, trains, launches, and private vehicles.

Since the news of Khaleda Zia’s death broke, leaders and activists have been arriving in Dhaka. From Tuesday afternoon onward, the number continued to increase. Many departed for the capital on night buses. 

In addition, leaders and activists are traveling to Dhaka by river routes from Bhola, Barishal, and Chandpur. Crowds of party activists have also been seen on trains heading toward Dhaka from various districts of the country.

The namaz-e-janaza Khaleda Zia will be held on Wednesday (31 December) after Zuhr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. The Office of the Chief Adviser said on Tuesday night that all necessary preparations for the janaza have been completed.

In a Facebook post, the Office of the Chief Adviser said that during the janaza, Khaleda Zia’s coffin will be placed at the western end of Manik Mia Avenue instead of the South Plaza of the National Parliament. 

The janaza will be held across the inner field of the National Parliament complex, the outer areas, and along Manik Mia Avenue.

All relevant state departments, including the security forces, are completing preparations to ensure that people from all walks of life can pay their respects to Khaleda Zia without difficulty and take part in the janaza. Necessary measures are also being taken so that members of the public can stand on the surrounding roads of Manik Mia Avenue.

After the funeral, at around 3:30pm, Khaleda Zia will be buried with state honors beside the grave of martyred president Ziaur Rahman at Zia Udyan in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. 

At that time, members of Khaleda Zia’s family, important state dignitaries, government officials, foreign guests, ambassadors, and BNP leaders will be present.

To ensure the burial is completed smoothly, only designated individuals will be allowed to enter Zia Udyan. Public movement in the area will remain restricted until the burial is completed.

BP/SP