Khaleda Zia’s body is being transported to Manik Mia in a flag-draped vehicle

The body of Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is being transported from her residence in Gulshan to Manik Mia Avenue for the funeral prayers. Draped in the national flag, the hearse began its solemn journey this Wednesday at 11:04 a.m. from the 196 Gulshan Avenue residence of her son, Tarique Rahman.

Accompanying the convoy is a red-and-green bus symbolising the national colours. Present in the procession are her family members, including Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, their daughter Zaima Rahman, and the wife of her younger son, Arafat Rahman Coco. Several members of the BNP’s standing committee, as well as close relatives of Khaleda Zia, are also part of the convoy.

The funeral prayers will be held at Manik Mia Avenue, following which Khaleda Zia will be laid to rest beside the grave of her late husband and former President Ziaur Rahman.

From early morning, supporters of the BNP and members of the public have begun gathering in large numbers to pay their respects. By 10:30 a.m., significant crowds were visible across key points, including the National Parliament grounds, the main thoroughfare of Manik Mia Avenue, and the Farmgate-Khamarbari junction. Authorities are managing traffic and crowd control as thousands assemble to participate in the last rites of the two-time Prime Minister.

Convoy and Funeral Schedule (Wednesday):

The emotional procession highlights the deep respect and admiration that many Bangladeshis hold for Khaleda Zia. Despite the somber occasion, the gathering demonstrates a remarkable turnout, reflecting her enduring political and personal influence.