Dhaka, Dec. 30 -- Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has paid tribute to his mother Khaleda Zia, describing her as a leader who shaped the country's democratic aspirations and a parent who remained a source of strength through years of political struggle.

In a statement posted on Facebook on Tuesday, Tarique reflected on his mother's political legacy and personal sacrifices.

"To many, she was the leader of the nation, an uncompromising leader, the Mother of Democracy, the Mother of Bangladesh. Today, the country mourns the loss of a guiding presence that shaped its democratic aspirations.

"To me, Khaleda Zia was a tender and loving mother who devoted her entire life to the country and its peo...