In a deeply personal and politically charged message, Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has paid an emotional tribute to his ailing mother, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. From his exile in London, Rahman hailed Zia as the 'mother of democracy' in Bangladesh, framing her ongoing struggle with illness as a symbol of the nation's broader political fight.
A Son's Heartfelt Homage from Afar
Tarique Rahman, who has lived in London since 2008, conveyed his sentiments through a statement that blended familial love with political rhetoric. He expressed profound admiration for his mother's resilience, stating that her life is a testament to unwavering dedication to the people of Bangladesh. Rahman's words come at a critical time, as the 78-year-old former premier continues to grapple with serious health complications.
Khaleda Zia, a towering figure in Bangladeshi politics and a former prime minister, has been receiving medical treatment under tight restrictions. She was convicted in 2018 on corruption charges, which her party and supporters vehemently claim are politically motivated. After spending time in jail, she was released in 2020 on an executive order that suspended her sentence on humanitarian grounds, but with the condition that she cannot travel abroad for advanced medical care.
The Political Prisoner Narrative and Health Crisis
Rahman's statement powerfully reinforces the BNP's longstanding narrative that Khaleda Zia is a political prisoner. He directly linked her physical suffering to what he described as the 'torture' inflicted by the current government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League. This portrayal aims to galvanize party supporters and draw international attention to her case.
The health of the former leader remains a major point of contention. The BNP has repeatedly demanded that she be allowed to seek specialized treatment overseas, a request the government has denied, citing legal constraints. Rahman's emotional appeal underscores this ongoing battle, transforming a personal health crisis into a central political issue symbolizing, for his followers, the state of democracy and justice in the country.
Legacy of the 'Mother of Democracy'
By bestowing the title 'mother of democracy' upon Khaleda Zia, Tarique Rahman is actively shaping her historical legacy. This label seeks to cement her image not just as a political leader, but as the foundational matriarch of the nation's democratic aspirations, positioning her in direct contrast with the current administration.
The tribute also serves a crucial internal party function. As the acting chairman operating from exile, Rahman faces the constant challenge of maintaining his authority and connection to the party's grassroots. Publicly championing his mother's cause and legacy reinforces his position as the rightful custodian of the Zia political dynasty and the BNP's ideological flame.
The emotional tribute from London highlights the deeply intertwined personal and political dramas that continue to define Bangladesh's volatile political landscape. It is a reminder that the story of Khaleda Zia—her health, her legal status, and her legacy—remains one of the most potent and divisive forces in the nation's ongoing struggle for power and democratic governance.
