Leaders of Bangladesh’s premier business organizations and trade bodies have expressed profound grief and shock following the demise of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
In separate tributes, the country’s top industrial representatives hailed her as a monumental figure in Bangladesh’s economic and democratic evolution.
FBCCI: A Grateful Nation Remembers
The Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), the nation’s apex trade body, issued a heartfelt condolence message. FBCCI Administrator Md. Abdur Rahim Khan stated that the nation would forever remember her tireless struggle and immense contributions toward establishing democracy and safeguarding the rights of the people. He noted that her leadership provided a stable foundation for the country’s commercial growth.
BGMEA & BKMEA: Icon of Economic Liberation
The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Mahmud Hasan Khan, stated that her role in the nation’s overall development and the economic liberation of the common people is “written in golden letters” in the history of Bangladesh.
Similarly, BKMEA President Mohammad Hatem described her as an icon of the democratic struggle, noting that her contributions to the country’s industrial infrastructure were “indescribable.”
DCCI & BTMA: A Loss for the Global Muslim Community
The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), led by President Ashraf Ahmed, and the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), under President Showkat Aziz Russell, highlighted her historic milestone as the first elected female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the second in the Muslim world. They emphasized her lifelong commitment to establishing the socio-economic rights that modern businesses now rely upon.
DSE & BASIS: Symbols of Integrity and Courage
The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) leadership, including Chairman Mominul Islam and Managing Director (MD) Nuzhat Anwar, praised her “unwavering commitment to honesty and public welfare,” particularly her role in strengthening the national economic framework.
BASIS Administrator Abul Khair Mohammed Hafizullah Khan added that the nation has lost a “brave guardian” and a “shining star” who never compromised on the dignity of the people.
BAJUS: The End of an Era
Enamul Haque Khan, President of the Bangladesh Jewellers’ Association (BAJUS), described her passing as the “end of an era.” He remarked that she was not merely a political leader but a significant chapter of Bangladesh’s history whose loss has created a void that can never be filled.
Across the board, these organizations extended their deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and the people of Bangladesh, praying for the eternal peace of her soul.