BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury on Friday said the country must move forward by upholding the vision and ideals of former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

“She may no longer be with us and has left us all in tears, but she has left behind her ideals,” Khasru said, describing Khaleda Zia as the “indomitable mother of democracy and a national leader.”

He made the remarks in the morning at the Chattogram Parade Ground during a memorial event for Buddhist spiritual leader, the Most Venerable Sangharaj Gyanashree Mahathera.

Khasru said people across South Asia and around the world are mourning Khaleda Zia’s death.

“Her philosophy, ideals, and consciousness must be embraced in our hearts. She was an epic figure and a globally renowned personality,” he said.

Highlighting Khaleda Zia’s inclusive outlook, he added, “Her belief in living together with people of all religions is something we must emulate and follow. Everyone should pray for her.”

Expressing hope for a peaceful and stable Bangladesh, the senior BNP leader said, “BNP wants to see a peaceful and stable Bangladesh. The country has been experiencing unrest for a long time. To restore peace for the welfare of the people, everyone must work together.”

He also lamented the erosion of mutual respect in society. “Respect for one another has diminished, and we have forgotten to honor differing opinions,” he said.

Speaking about the future of Bangladesh, Khasru emphasised unity and inclusive development.

“We must build Bangladesh together. The benefits of development must reach every household, and there must be no discrimination in the country,” he added.