BNP to Celebrate Khaleda Zia’s 80th Birth Anniversary Friday

Khaleda Zia- File photo

The 80th birth anniversary of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, widely referred to by party followers as the “Mother of Democracy”, will be observed across the country on Friday with various programmes.

According to a BNP press release, doa and milad mahfils will be organised at mosques and BNP offices nationwide to mark the day, which falls on 15 August. The central programme will be held at 11:00 am at the ground floor of the BNP’s central office in Nayapaltan, Dhaka, where senior party leaders will attend and offer prayers for the BNP chief’s well-being.

BNP leaders, activists, and supporters from all affiliated and associate bodies in Dhaka and other districts have been urged to join the prayers. Similar events will take place at the party’s offices in cities, towns, and upazilas across the country.

Begum Khaleda Zia, the country’s first female prime minister, served three terms in office—1991 to 1996, 2001 to 2006, and for a brief period in 1996. A key figure in Bangladesh’s political history, she led the BNP for decades and played a significant role in shaping national politics, particularly during the country’s democratic movements.

While the BNP traditionally marks her birthday on 15 August, the date has been the subject of political debate over the years, with rival political camps disputing its accuracy. Despite the controversy, BNP leaders and supporters continue to observe the day as an occasion to pay tribute to her leadership, resilience, and contributions to democracy.

Friday’s programmes are expected to witness large participation from grassroots members to senior leaders, reflecting the enduring influence and loyalty Khaleda Zia commands within the party.