Eminent physician and social activist Dr. Zubaida Rahman has hailed former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia as an "indomitable symbol of the progress of democracy," highlighting her lifelong struggle against oppression and dictatorship.

Dr. Zubaida made these remarks while attending the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration and the "Best Indomitable Woman" award distribution ceremony in Dhaka, where she and her daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman, were present as special guests.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late President Ziaur Rahman and his role in establishing multi-party democracy in Bangladesh, Dr. Zubaida praised Begum Zia’s steadfast morale and patience in the face of persistent adversity.

"Important lessons can be learned from Begum Zia's life about the determination of women and the courage of leadership," she stated, describing the former Prime Minister as a warrior and a powerful voice for justice who always stood with the oppressed.

Emphasizing the importance of women’s empowerment for national development, Dr. Zubaida invoked a poignant United Nations principle during her address: "When women move forward, a nation moves forward."

She called for the observance of International Women's Day 2026 to serve as a platform for renewing the national commitment to a society built on the pillars of equality, dignity, and justice.

The event, presided over by the Minister for Women and Children Affairs, Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, MP, featured contributions from several high-level officials and international representatives.

State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Farzana Sharmin, MP, UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liler, and Director General of the Directorate of Women Affairs Zeenat Ara also spoke at the gathering, underscoring the collective effort required to foster gender equity in the nation.

Dr. Zubaida concluded by commending the Ministry for organizing the event and celebrating the resilience of women across the country.