The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has issued a legal notice to stop the production of a movie titled "Mother of Democracy," based on the life of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. The legal notice was sent on Wednesday, August 21, by BNP's Legal Affairs Secretary, Kaiser Kamal.
The film, directed by MK Zaman and produced by Akond Entertainment PLC, has stirred controversy since its announcement. Zaman had previously told various media outlets that he had been working on the project for a long time, gathering information and learning about Khaleda Zia's life story. The title "Mother of Democracy" was officially registered with the Bangladesh Film Directors Association on August 18.
However, BNP has strongly denied any involvement in the project. According to Kaiser Kamal, neither Begum Khaleda Zia nor any of her family members were consulted or
gave permission for the film. "There has never been any communication with these so-called filmmakers and producers," Kamal stated. He described the project as a "malicious attempt" to exploit Khaleda Zia's name.
The legal notice demands that the filmmakers and producers cease all activities related to the movie immediately. A copy of the notice has also been sent to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commissioner. Kamal warned that if the filmmakers do not hold a press conference within five days to retract their statements, BNP will pursue legal action.
This legal move by BNP highlights the sensitivity surrounding the portrayal of political figures in Bangladesh, particularly one as prominent as Khaleda Zia. The situation remains tense as the filmmakers have yet to respond publicly to the legal notice.
