Commonwealth Secretary Mourns Death of Khaleda Zia

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Bangladesh’s three-time former prime minister, Begum Khaleda Zia.

In a written condolence message to Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Botchwey conveyed her sympathies, with the note forwarded to the Bangladesh High Commission in London yesterday.

“It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh,” she said in the message.

On behalf of the Commonwealth, Botchwey extended her heartfelt condolences to Khaleda Zia’s family and to the people of Bangladesh during this period of national mourning.

Describing Khaleda Zia as a towering figure and a guiding presence in Bangladesh’s political history, the Secretary-General highlighted her resilience and leadership as the country’s first female prime minister.

She noted that Khaleda Zia’s three terms in office demonstrated her steadfast commitment to the welfare of the Bangladeshi people.

Botchwey also said Khaleda Zia’s influence reached beyond Bangladesh, serving as an inspiration for women’s leadership across South Asia and throughout the Commonwealth.

The Secretary-General concluded by asking the Chief Adviser to accept her deepest condolences and highest respect on the death of Begum Khaleda Zia.