New Delhi: In her first public address in over six years, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia delivered a speech via video link at a political rally in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The address came shortly after her release from house arrest, following a presidential pardon. Khaleda Zia, aged 79, had been imprisoned since 2018 on corruption charges and is currently receiving medical treatment at Evercare Hospital. Her speech came just a day after current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned amidst widespread protests, adding to the political turbulence in the country.Message of gratitude and hopeDuring her speech, Khaleda expressed deep gratitude to her supporters and reflected on Bangladeshs ongoing political situation. She honored the nations long struggle for independence and acknowledged the courageous individuals who sacrificed for the countrys freedom.Heres what she said:BNP chairperson and former #Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia issues recorded statement appealing for peace and communal harmony in the country pic.twitter.com/pgMR6eMiW3— Indrajit Kundu | ইন্দ্রজিৎ (@iindrojit) August 7, 2024The long day was spent in discipline. Our country is speaking before us praise be to Allah, the Almighty. Our state remains eternal in sacrifice. Thanks to our liberation and freedom struggle, thanks to the Quran, and thanks to the nation for the long movement and the struggle for freedom.Furthermore she added, We are eternally grateful to the brave souls who fought to the death. With faith in the people, this long-fought victory policy, the republic, the monument of the republic, we are building a prosperous Bangladesh. Students, youth, and the future are dreaming of a truly enlightened world and a knowledge-loving democratic Bangladesh, she declared.Vision for democratic futureKhaleda Zia emphasized her vision of building a prosperous and peaceful Bangladesh, where exploitation and fear have no place. She stressed the importance of faith, peace, and progress in developing a modern and harmonious society. Concluding her address with the words Allah, Bangladesh Zindabad (Long live Bangladesh), Khaleda reaffirmed her commitment to creating a democratic and enlightened nation.
