Dhaka, Jan. 1 -- BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has thanked everyone involved in the funeral prayers and burial of his mother, former prime minister and BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her final farewell as "historic" and saying it was carried out with "due dignity and respect for the people of the country".

In a post published shortly before 7.15am on Thursday on his verified Facebook page, Rahman expressed gratitude to citizens as well as officials and institutions who helped organise the janaza and burial.

"In this time of deep grief, the empathy, respect and sense of responsibility you have shown has deeply touched our hearts," he wrote, addressing the nation and those who performed duties during the funeral rites....