Zaima receives Khaleda’s award on Int’l Women’s Day

Former prime minister Khaleda Zia has been honoured with the “Best Indomitable Woman in Advancing Democracy” award as part of this year’s International Women’s Day observance.
Her granddaughter Barrister Zaima Rahman, also daughter of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, received the award from President Mohammed Shahabuddin at a ceremony at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Sunday.
The Ministry of Women and Children Affairs presented awards to Khaleda Zia and five other women in different categories in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
Khaleda Zia was recognised for her steadfast leadership in the struggle to restore democracy and for safeguarding the country’s democratic process.
Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of the prime minister, also attended the programme as a special guest.
Nurun Nahar Akter was honoured for her achievements in economic empowerment, while Bobita Khatun for education and employment, Nur Banu Kabir in the successful mother category, Shamla Begum for overcoming violence-related trauma and rebuilding her life successfully and Afroza Yasmin was honoured for her notable contributions to social development.
Women’s progress means nation’s progress: President 
Speaking on the occasion, President Shahabuddin stressed the need to ensure women’s safety both at home and outside to fully realise the benefits of policies adopted for women’s development and prosperity. 
“Let today’s pledge be that women and girls will no longer be victims of neglect, violence and discrimination, and that they will enjoy equal opportunities and dignity everywhere,” he said. 
Expressing his commitment to building a liveable Bangladesh, the President said he envisioned a country where every woman grows up in a safe environment, becomes self-reliant and takes leadership roles, and where every girl has the opportunity to dream and fulfil her aspirations. 
“The government of former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia set a notable example by adopting strict legal and administrative measures against violence against women. Special initiatives are still being taken to combat such crimes,” he said. 
The head of state said the progress of women means the progress of the country and the nation as well, urging everyone, particularly in patriarchal societies, to recognise this truth. 

Referring to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, he said the foundation he laid for women’s development was further strengthened by Begum Khaleda Zia, who made primary education for girls compulsory and introduced free education up to class XII. 
Khaleda Zia also introduced education stipends for girls to increase female enrolment, the President said, adding that the initiative received international acclaim. 
The current government, he noted, plans to introduce free education for girls up to the postgraduate level. 
Shahabuddin highlighted several persistent social challenges, including violence against women, workplace discrimination, wage inequality, weak legal protection, insecurity, child marriage, anti-women attitudes and social prejudice. 
In this connection, he said social harassment, online defamation and cyber-bullying targeting women have also emerged as new challenges.
The President called for collective efforts to address these problems through the strict enforcement of laws and greater social awareness. 
A documentary titled “Today’s Steps, Tomorrow’s Justice: May the Rights of Women and Girls Be Protected” was screened at the event. 

Bangladesh to be safe for women: Zubaida 
Speaking on the occasion, Zubaida Rahman expressed hope that Bangladesh will become a safe and dignified country for all women and girls. 
“Bangladesh will be a country where every woman and girl is safe, respected and has the opportunity for a bright future,” she said.
 Quoting a widely known statement of the United Nations, Zubaida Rahman said, “When women move forward, a nation also moves forward.”
She said International Women’s Day 2026 should be observed as a renewed commitment to building a society based on equality, dignity and justice. 
On the occasion, Zubaida Rahman paid deep tribute to martyred President Ziaur Rahman and highlighted his contribution to establishing multi-party democracy in the country. 

Stating that the greatest strength of a human being lies in determination and resilience, she said despite immense oppression and injustice, Khaleda Zia remained uncompromising, patient and steadfast. 
Describing Khaleda Zia as an indomitable symbol of the country’s democratic journey, Zubaida Rahman said her heart has always wept for the oppressed and persecuted people of the country, while her thunderous voice has consistently spoken out against autocracy and exploitation. 
She also termed Khaleda Zia a mother, a fighter and a strong voice for justice, someone who serves as a guiding inspiration for people who believe in democracy.