September 11 marks the day former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia was released from detention in 2008 after spending 372 days in confinement under the then caretaker government.
She was released on September 11, 2008, from a special jail set up inside the Parliament complex.
For BNP leaders and activists, September 11 has since remained more than a date on the calendar. It is remembered as a day that marked the end of a long period of waiting, anxiety and the joy of freedom.
Khaleda Zia detained in 2007
On September 3, 2007, the then caretaker government detained Begum Khaleda Zia from her residence on Moinul Road in Dhaka Cantonment.
After she was produced before a court, her bail was denied and she was ordered to remain confined in a building inside the Parliament complex, which was turned into a special prison.
As days, months and eventually a year passed, her party leaders, supporters and relatives continued to wait outside the prison.
Release sparks celebrations
Finally, on September 11, 2008, Begum Khaleda Zia was released from confinement.
Crowds quickly gathered on the streets to welcome her. Some carried flowers, while others shed tears of joy as supporters celebrated the release of their leader.
More years have passed since then, but September 11 remains a vivid memory among those who identify with Bangladeshi nationalism.
Political journey marked by struggle
Begum Khaleda Zia’s political career continued through numerous political ups and downs, struggles and challenges.
Her political journey made her a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s democratic politics, while her periods of detention and political struggle remained significant chapters in her career.
Khaleda Zia dies in 2025
Begum Khaleda Zia, the country’s first female prime minister, died on December 30, 2025.
Following her death, there was an unprecedented outpouring of public affection and mourning.
After one of the largest funerals in the country’s history, she was laid to rest with state honours beside the grave of her husband, Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the proclaimer of Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and founder of the BNP in 1978.
-BSS
