Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia’s condition is very critical as she battles multiple health issues in intensive care, her party confirms
DHAKA: Former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia’s health has deteriorated significantly since her hospital admission last week.
The 80-year-old opposition leader was admitted on November 23 with symptoms of a lung infection and remains in intensive care.
Bangladesh Nationalist Party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir confirmed her serious condition late Friday.
“Doctors have told us that her condition is very critical,” Alamgir told reporters.
Senior BNP leaders and anxious supporters visited the hospital Saturday seeking updates on her health.
According to The Daily Star, Zia suffers from multiple serious health conditions including heart, liver, kidney, and lung problems.
She also has diabetes, arthritis, eye-related illnesses, a permanent pacemaker, and previously underwent heart stenting.
Zia’s eldest son Tarique Rahman, who lives in London, requested public prayers for his mother’s recovery via social media.
“We express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all your prayers and love for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia,” Rahman posted Saturday.
The 60-year-old explained he cannot return to Bangladesh due to circumstances beyond his control.
“I share the same deep longing as any child to have my mother’s touch in moments of crisis,” he said.
Zia served three terms as prime minister before her 2018 corruption conviction under Sheikh Hasina’s government.
The conviction included a travel ban preventing her from seeking medical treatment abroad.
She was released last year following Hasina’s ouster from power.
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus described Zia as inspirational for the nation during Bangladesh’s democratic transition.
“Her recovery is very important for the country,” Yunus stated Friday night.
Despite her critical health condition, Zia has vowed to campaign in elections expected in February 2026.
The BNP is widely seen as a frontrunner in the upcoming polls. – AFP
