BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has said the political philosophy and ideology of late national leader Begum Khaleda Zia continue to hold relevance for Bangladesh’s future, emphasising the need to uphold democratic values, inclusiveness and equal rights.
Speaking as the guest of honour at a commemorative programme in Chattogram on Friday, Amir Khasru said Khaleda Zia’s political thoughts and leadership approach remain influential, even after her death. He noted that her role in Bangladesh’s political history is widely recognised both at home and abroad.
“Although she is no longer physically present, her ideology and political philosophy will continue to guide the nation,” he said, addressing the gathering.
Call for Inclusiveness and Equal Rights
Amir Khasru stressed the importance of protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity or social background, in building a future Bangladesh. He urged people to embrace what he described as Khaleda Zia’s inclusive political outlook, which he said promoted peaceful coexistence among communities of different faiths.
He also called on citizens to remember the former prime minister’s contributions and pray for her, describing her as a leader admired across South Asia and beyond.
Event Context
The remarks were made during the ‘National Anitya Sabha and Smriticharan’ programme, organised in memory of the late Agra Mahapandit Dr Gyanshree Mahathero, the highest spiritual leader of Buddhists in Bangladesh. The event was organised by the Bangladesh Buddhist Association and held in Chattogram.
Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain attended the programme as the chief guest. Other speakers included Abu Sufian, former convener of BNP’s Chattogram South District unit and BNP candidate for the Chattogram-9 constituency; educationist Professor Dr Sukomal Barua; and Sumon Barua, a member of the Chattogram Hill Tracts Development Board.
Message of solidarity
Amir Khasru stressed the importance of coming together to make society fairer and welcoming in his speech. He emphasised that working together and respecting each other were important for the country's prosperity, following the principles of Dr Gyanshree Mahathero.
Political Importance
Political analysts say that senior BNP leaders' references to Khaleda Zia's philosophy come at a time when the party is trying to reassert its political story in the middle of ongoing discussions in Bangladesh about democracy, rights, and governance.
Former prime minister Khaleda Zia and chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is still a major figure in the country's political discourse. Her legacy is regularly brought up in talks about democratic movements and political pluralism.
About Dr Gyanshree Mahathero
The programme also commemorated the life and contributions of Dr Gyanshree Mahathero, a highly respected Buddhist religious leader and recipient of the Ekushey Padak for his contributions to social service. He passed away on November 13 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chattogram.
As part of the day-long observances, religious rituals including the National Anitya Sabha, Smriticharan, Ashtaparishkar and Sanghadan were held.
Following the ceremonies, the body of Sangharaj Gyanshree Mahathero was scheduled to be taken to the Binajuri Crematorium in Rouzan at 6:00 pm on Friday for the final rites.
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