Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) Chairman Mominul Islam on Thursday said former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s initiatives to establish an institutional framework and restore discipline in Bangladesh’s capital market remain unforgettable.

“Khaleda Zia’s contribution to Bangladesh’s economy is outstanding. The foundation of a market-oriented and private sector–led economic development framework was laid during her tenure,” he said while addressing a memorial meeting and doa mehfil organised by the DSE and the DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA) at the DSE Tower.

Mominul said the large-scale expansion of the private sector that began in 1991 continues to benefit the general people of the country. He added that her role in introducing discipline and building institutional structures in the capital market and financial sector was particularly significant.

Mominul noted that the true contribution of a statesperson often becomes clearer after their passing, adding that the spontaneous participation of people from all walks of life in Khaleda Zia’s janaza reflected the nation’s deep respect and affection for her.

Referring to the formation of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) in 1993 during Khaleda Zia’s government, DSE Managing Director Nuzhat Anwar said the establishment of the regulator provided the capital market with a strong institutional foundation.

She also recalled Khaleda Zia’s presence at a national award-giving ceremony on March 2, 1994, where the top ten listed companies of the DSE were honoured, describing it as a landmark recognition of the industrial and corporate sectors by the state.

DBA President Saiful Islam said Khaleda Zia opened a new chapter in the capital market in 1991 by allowing foreign investors to participate. “It was her visionary decision that paved the way for today’s modern capital market.”

Khaleda Zia’s nephew, Shams Iskandar, who was present at the programme, sought prayers from all on behalf of the family.

The programme concluded with a special doa seeking eternal peace for Begum Khaleda Zia and expressing deep condolences to her bereaved family.