Dhaka: A civic condolence meeting in memory of late BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia will be held on Friday at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. The memorial, organised by civil society, will begin at 2:30pm, organisers said at a press conference at the Krishibid Institution in the capital on Thursday noon.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Professor Mahbub Ullah, speaking on behalf of the organisers, emphasized that the memorial is not a party-political event. He noted that while the event is not organized by any political party, it inherently carries a political aspect due to the interconnected nature of human actions and politics. However, he clarified that no political party leader will speak from the stage. Instead, prominent figures from various professions, including researchers, religious representatives, doctors, teachers, and representatives from hill communities, will deliver speeches. Political parties have been invited as guests and will sit in the audience.

Professor Mahbub Ullah further explained that a large number of people have expressed shock and tributes since Khaleda Zia’s passing on December 30, prompting civil society to take the initiative for this solemn event. He stressed the importance of maintaining dignity throughout the proceedings.

Organisers have extended invitations to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman and members of Khaleda Zia’s family, who are expected to attend. Guests from diplomatic missions and representatives from various professional bodies have also been invited. Entry gates will open at 12:30pm.

Khaleda Zia passed away while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital on December 30. She was buried the following day with state honours beside the grave of President Ziaur Rahman at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar.

The organizers announced strict rules for the memorial meeting. No selfies, applause, or standing will be allowed during the program. Entry without an invitation card is prohibited, but an alternative verification desk will be available for invited guests who may forget their cards.

For live coverage, organizers mentioned that BTV will broadcast the event live, and other channels will be able to take feeds from there. Separate media booths have been set up for electronic, print, and online media, with facilities like Wi-Fi and transmission towers provided for journalists.