Dhaka, Dec. 30 -- History rarely announces its chosen figures in advance. BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has proven it. Her life was a testament to resilience, determination and leadership, marked by an unwavering commitment to democracy and deep patriotism.

Starting as a homemaker, she entered politics seven months after the assassination of her husband, late President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and rose to become Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister in less than a decade.

Over a political career spanning nearly 43 years, she faced personal tragedies, imprisonment and political turbulence, yet remained a steadfast leader and a unifying symbol of democracy in Bangladesh.

According to political analysts, Khaleda's rise began with pub...