New President visits Zia, Khaleda’s graves before Bangabhaban oath

New President visits Zia, Khaleda’s graves before Bangabhaban oath

Dhaka, Aug 21 - Newly elected President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday visited the graves of BNP founder and Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia before heading to Bangabhaban for his swearing-in.

After offering Jummah prayers at the Staff Quarters Jame Mosque on Bailey Road, Fakhrul went directly to the graves of Zia and Khaleda at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, arriving at 1:46pm.

He placed two floral wreaths at the graves, stood silently for some time, offered Fateha and joined a munajat there.

During his long political career, Fakhrul had visited the graves many times as BNP secretary general, accompanied by party leaders, activists and supporters.

BNP MP Quamruzzaman Ratan and newly elected President’s Assistant Private Secretary Yunus Ali were present during the visit.

Party leaders, activists and supporters gathered outside the security cordon and greeted Fakhrul by waving at him.

Fakhrul was elected the country’s President through a parliamentary vote on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the veteran politician will be sworn in as Bangladesh’s 23rd President in the evening.

The oath-taking ceremony will be held at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban at 7:30pm.

Acting Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal will administer the oath of office of the President, according to Bangabhaban.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, cabinet members, and hundreds of distinguished guests are expected to attend the event. - UNB