Memorial service for Begum Khaleda Zia at the Washington Press Club

Diplomats, journalists and policymakers in Washington respectfully remembered the contribution of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia at the National Press Club, a centennial organization in the United States. At the meeting, organized to express deep sorrow and respect for her death, speakers highlighted Begum Zia's political struggle, sacrifice and her historic role in establishing parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh.

The memorial service, organized by National Press Club member and Bangladesh Ambassador to Mexico Mushfiqul Fazal Ansari on Monday evening, was addressed by Mark Schiff, the newly elected 119th President of the National Press Club, former AP editor Maron Bilkind, former US Ambassador to Bangladesh Dan Mozena and Ambassador Marsha Bernicat, Stimson Center Senior Fellow Steve Rose, former Voice of America Bangla Department Chief Iqbal Bahar Chowdhury, Bangladesh Embassy Press Minister Golam Mortaza, and American University Law Professor Ehteshamul Haque.

Before the discussion, a documentary on the life and political struggle of Begum Khaleda Zia was screened, which moved the guests present emotionally.

This memorial service in Washington was a shining example of international respect and honor for this great leader of democracy, proving that Begum Khaleda Zia's name remains a symbol of democracy that is equally relevant and respected on the world stage.

In his welcome speech, Ambassador Mushfiqul Fazal Ansari said, "We are not just remembering a former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia was an integral part of the history of Bangladesh's democratic struggle, a protector of independence and sovereignty, and a builder of economic progress."

When the country's democratic institutions were destroyed and the voices of dissent were silenced, he stood fearlessly against tyranny. He was a unique leader who set an example in the world.

He further said that Begum Khaleda Zia's courage was rooted in history. On March 25, 1971, during the brutal campaign of the Pakistan Army, she blocked the initiative to remove weapons from the arsenal of the East Bengal Regiment. Through this firm stance that weapons could not be removed without the permission of her husband, Major Ziaur Rahman, she set a unique example of resistance at the risk of her life. Later, President Ziaur Rahman declared independence, which changed the course of history.

Ambassador Mushfiq said that Begum Khaleda Zia was unjustly detained in prison to fulfill a political vendetta. This case was protested at home and abroad, and it was described as a political conspiracy in the annual human rights report of the US State Department.