Khaleda Zia’s body is being taken from Evercare to Firoz

The body of former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson, Khaleda Zia, is being transferred from Evercare Hospital to her Gulshan residence, Firoza, in Dhaka. The move, carried out under stringent security measures, took place on Wednesday morning, 31 December, at approximately 9:00 am.

The funeral prayers (janaza) for Khaleda Zia are scheduled to be held at Manik Mia Avenue, Dhaka, later on Wednesday after the Zuhr prayers. Authorities have completed all necessary preparations to ensure the ceremony proceeds smoothly and with full respect to protocols.

To maintain order and guarantee comprehensive security, a total of 27 platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed across Manik Mia Avenue and other strategic points within the capital. This deployment aims to prevent any untoward incidents and facilitate the smooth movement of attendees.

Supporters and party workers from districts surrounding Dhaka are expected to converge on the city early Wednesday morning to join the funeral procession. Observers on the ground noted an air of solemnity and grief among the public following news of Khaleda Zia’s passing. Party offices nationwide reflected similar sombreness, with black flags hoisted to signify mourning and a sense of emptiness prevailing among staff and party members.

The following table summarises key details of the funeral arrangements:

The city of Dhaka is bracing for an influx of mourners throughout the day. Roads leading to the venue are being closely monitored, and traffic diversions have been implemented to accommodate the funeral procession. Authorities emphasise public cooperation to ensure the ceremony is conducted with dignity and decorum.