“Khaleda Zia was a true practitioner of democracy and a statesperson

Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was a true practitioner of democracy and a statesperson free from vindictive politics, said BNP Standing Committee member and former minister Dr. Abdul Moyeen Khan.

He made the remarks on Saturday at a condolence meeting held at the Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall of the National Press Club, organized by the Lawyers’ Association and the World Human Rights Organization Bangladesh, seeking eternal peace for the late former prime minister.

Dr. Moyeen Khan said that speaking about Begum Khaleda Zia often leaves people speechless. “When we recall her absence and her contributions, our voices falter. Even today, we struggle to find the words to express our feelings,” he said.

He described Khaleda Zia as more than a political leader, saying, “She was a true statesperson. Her vision, leadership, competence, and above all her deep love for the people of Bangladesh elevated her to this position.”

Recalling the political context of the 1991 general election, Dr. Moyeen Khan said it was a crucial period for the country following the fall of autocratic rule through the mass uprising of the 1990s. He noted that although Khaleda Zia’s decision to boycott the 1986 and 1988 elections had been criticized at the time, history later proved her decision to be correct. “As a continuation of that political stance, the people elected her prime minister in 1991,” he added.

Sharing his experience as a minister, Dr. Moyeen Khan said Khaleda Zia consistently upheld democratic values in governance. “During my three terms as a minister, she never once issued direct instructions on how to run the ministry. She gave full freedom to her ministers, which was a clear reflection of her commitment to democracy,” he said.

He also highlighted her tolerance and inclusive leadership, noting that she would seek the opinion of the concerned minister even before appointing a senior secretary to a ministry—an approach he described as a rare example of democratic leadership.

Referring to the numerous cases filed against Khaleda Zia, Dr. Moyeen Khan said nearly 47 false cases had been brought against her. “Once I asked her why she continued to appear in court. She replied, ‘They may commit injustice, but I cannot go beyond the law.’ That single statement reflects her respect for the rule of law, moral courage, and statesmanlike character,” he said.

“For these reasons,” Dr. Moyeen Khan concluded, “Begum Khaleda Zia will be remembered as a symbol of politics without vengeance and as a great statesperson who truly practiced democracy.”