Khaleda Zia was a symbol of unity, pro-Bangladesh politics: JU VC
Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan today addressed a seminar titled “Uncompromising Leader Begum Khaleda Zia: Life and Works” held at the university’s Zahir Raihan Auditorium. Photo: BSS
JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Jan 1, 2026 (BSS) – Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan today said former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia would be remembered as a symbol of patience, humanity and pro-Bangladesh inclusive politics.
He made the remarks while addressing a seminar titled “Uncompromising Leader Begum Khaleda Zia: Life and Works”, with the participation of teachers, students, officers and employees of the university, at the seminar room of the university’s Zahir Raihan Auditorium this afternoon.
“Khaleda Zia’s life was not only a political history but also a source of learning for future generations,” said Prof Kamrul.
The vice-chancellor said Khaleda Zia did not enter politics through prior planning; rather, circumstances of national crisis pushed her into leadership, beginning with the uncertainties she faced during the Liberation War of 1971 and later following the assassination of President Ziaur Rahman in 1981.
“After becoming a widow, she not only carried the responsibility of a family but took the entire Bangladesh as her own household,” he said, adding that her struggle during the anti-Ershad movement reflected extraordinary patience and political responsibility.
Dr Kamrul Ahsan said Khaleda Zia played a significant role in institutionalising parliamentary democracy and introducing the caretaker government system through constitutional amendment.
He also highlighted her contributions to foreign policy, including raising issues such as the Farakka Barrage, the Bihari repatriation crisis and regional security concerns from a Bangladesh-first perspective.
Referring to the post-2001 global political context, the vice-chancellor said Khaleda Zia opposed exclusionary politics based on religion or identity and promoted inclusive politics while responsibly addressing international security concerns.
He said Khaleda Zia’s post-2024 mass uprising message — “no violence, no revenge, let us build Bangladesh together” — proved her moral and political greatness even after a life marked by persecution and imprisonment.
Dr Kamrul Ahsan also paid tribute to those killed and injured in the 2024 mass uprising, saying their sacrifices made it possible to stand in the present democratic context and ensured Khaleda Zia’s freedom.
“Khaleda Zia proved through her life that Bangladesh was her only home. The love of ordinary people, from villages to cities, was her greatest achievement,” he added.