Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade RGOB
The Royal Government and people of Bhutan learnt with deep sadness the passing away of the President of the Peopleโs Republic of Bangladesh, Mr. Md. Zillur Rahman yesterday at Mt. Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore. He was undergoing treatment for kidney and respiratory problems.
As a mark of respect to the late President and solidarity with the Government and people of Bangladesh, the National Flag of Bhutan was today flown at half mast across the country.
A prayer ceremony including a thousand butter lamps was offered at the Kuenrey of Tashichhodzong by Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Cabinet Ministers and senior officials of the Royal Government.
Lyonchhen Jigmi Y. Thinley, in a condolence message sent yesterday to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on behalf of the Government and people of Bhutan said that โThe sacrifices that President Rahman made from the days of the freedom struggle to present day Bangladesh are enormous and will forever be remembered by his people and the world. Even as the people of Bangladesh strive to come to terms with the loss, it is our wish and prayer that they will draw inspiration from the life and contributions of the Late President and bring further peace, progress and prosperity to their nationโ.
The Government of Bangladesh has declared a three-day of national mourning. State ceremony to pay last respects to the late President was held today at Bangabhaban and the mortal remains will be buried at Banani Graveyard at 1530 Hours with state honours on 23rd March 2013.
The late President was sworn in as the 19th President of Bangladesh on 12th February 2009 and was 84 years old at the time of his demise. He is survived by one son Mr. Nazmul Hasan, and two daughters, Ms. Tanya Bukth, and Ms. Tonyma Rahman.
