Baitul Mukarram Khatib to Lead Begum Zia’s Janaza

The Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque Mufti Abdul Malek will lead the funeral prayers (namaz-e-janaza) of former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. 

The Namaz-e-janaza is scheduled to be held today at 2 pm.  

The janaza is set to take place at 2 pm today at the historic Manik Mia Avenue, following the Zuhr prayers. 

The choice of Mufti Abdul Malek to lead the prayers underscores the national significance of the event, as millions of mourners and high-level international dignitaries gather in the capital.

Earlier this day, draped in the national flag, the mortuary van carrying Begum Khaleda Zia—the three-time Prime Minister and iconic figure of democratic struggle—has arrived at Manik Mia Avenue. The vehicle entered the National Parliament Complex at 11:50 am, marking the final stage before her funeral prayers.

The journey began earlier this morning when the van departed Evercare Hospital at 8:53 am. It first traveled to her residence, Firoza, arriving at 11:04 am under heavy security escort, with law enforcement personnel lining the entire route.

Accompanying the late leader on her final journey were her eldest son and BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter Zaima Rahman. Other close relatives, including the widow of her late younger son Arafat Rahman Koko, also joined the motorcade as it moved toward the janaza venue, where a massive sea of mourners awaited their arrival.

Thousands of mourners from across Bangladesh have converged on Manik Mia Avenue in Dhaka to attend the funeral prayers. 

The vast stretch of the capital’s main thoroughfare and the South Plaza of the National Parliament complex have been filled to capacity, creating a massive gathering of people united in grief for the three-time premier.

Since early morning, leaders, activists and citizens of all ages have arrived in steady streams, many traveling overnight from distant districts to pay their final respects. 

The atmosphere remains solemn as participants carry national flags, party banners and portraits of the late leader. 

Security has been significantly tightened across the area by law enforcement agencies while medical teams and volunteers have been deployed to manage the crowd and provide essential services like water and temporary shade.