Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has expressed deep shock and condolences over the death of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her as a significant figure in Bangladesh’s democratic and anti-autocracy movements.

In a condolence message issued on Tuesday, Dr Shafiqur Rahman said Khaleda Zia played an important role in the restoration of multi-party democracy and in movements for safeguarding people’s voting rights.

He noted that her leadership and firm political stance had given her a distinct place in the country’s political history.

He further said that the nation would remember with respect her contributions to movements against hegemony and autocratic rule.

Praying for the departed leader, the Jamaat Ameer sought divine forgiveness for her shortcomings and prayed that Allah grant her Jannatul Firdous.

He also expressed sympathy for her family members, relatives and political associates, praying for strength and patience for them in this time of grief.