Rizvi alleges Sheikh Hasina’s responsibility in the death of Begum Khaleda Zia

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Sunday alleged that the death of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia was not natural, claiming it was a planned killing.

He said Khaleda Zia was gradually driven to death through negligence and torture by the then government, holding former prime minister Sheikh Hasina responsible for her death.

Rizvi made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a doa and munajat programme held at Dakeshwari Temple, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of Begum Khaleda Zia. The event was organised by the Bangladesh Puja Udjapon Front.

Describing Khaleda Zia as a source of shelter and strength for the nation, Rizvi said she was like a mother who gave courage to her people. “She never left the country under any circumstances. She truly became a mother of the nation and earned a permanent place in the hearts of the people,” he said.

He added that even while confined at home, her presence continued to inspire party leaders and activists, especially during difficult times when BNP struggled to hold processions and speak for democracy amid repression.

Rizvi described Khaleda Zia as a religious, humane and non-communal leader, saying that a truly religious person can never be communal. He said people of all religions, colours and creeds felt secure and confident under her leadership.

He further alleged that Khaleda Zia entered prison in good health but returned home critically ill due to extreme negligence in providing proper treatment, medicine and food, claiming it was part of a deliberate plan. “That is why I say it was a murder carried out through a conspiracy by Sheikh Hasina and the designated persons of the then government,” he said.

Rizvi also praised Khaleda Zia’s character, saying she was a dignified and reserved leader who never used indecent language even when subjected to harsh criticism by political opponents. He described her cultural stature as unique.

He said Khaleda Zia proved that honesty, loyalty and commitment define true politics, adding that politics is not about abuse but about fulfilling promises made to the people. Future generations, he said, would remember her as a leader who avoided false promises and sincerely tried to deliver on her commitments.

BNP National Executive Committee Assistant Organising Secretary Aminul Islam, Executive Committee Member Mahbubur Rahman and Debasish Roy Modhu, Chhatra Dal Central Committee Vice-President Dr Touhidur Rahman Awal, and leaders of various BNP front organisations, among others, attended the programme.

Bangladesh Puja Udjapon Front Central Committee President Aparna Roy presided over the event.