A significant development has sent ripples through the political landscape of Bangladesh, as former Prime Minister and Chairperson of the ‘Bangladesh Nationalist Party’ (BNP), Khaleda Zia, has been reported to be in an 'extremely critical' condition. This alarming news, confirmed by a close aide on Friday, has plunged the nation into a state of concern, especially given the recent dramatic shifts in Bangladesh's political environment where the BNP has emerged as a leading force.
Deteriorating Health Condition
Khaleda Zia, approximately 80 years old, was admitted to the hospital on Sunday night following a severe chest infection, while this infection has gravely impacted both her heart and lungs, leading to a rapid deterioration of her overall health. Despite continuous medical attention from a dedicated team of doctors, her condition has shown no signs of improvement. On the contrary, reports on Friday indicated that her state had become 'extremely. Critical,' raising profound worries among her party members, supporters, and the general populace.
Doctors Express Deep Concern
The gravity of Khaleda Zia's health was underscored by the 'Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha' (BSS), the state news agency, which quoted BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. He stated that physicians had informed him on Thursday night that her physical condition was 'very serious. ' The medical team is reportedly providing intensive care, but the complexity of her ailments, coupled with her advanced age, presents a formidable challenge to her recovery. Her pre-existing conditions further complicate the situation, making her highly vulnerable.
BNP Organizes Special Prayers
In response to their leader's critical health, the ‘Bangladesh Nationalist Party’ (BNP) has organized special prayers across the country for Khaleda Zia's swift recovery. Following the Juma (Friday) prayers, mosques nationwide offered supplications for her well-being, while mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir urged people across the country to pray for the recovery of 'Mother of Democracy' Begum Khaleda Zia. He expressed hope that she would soon recover and return to the people, enabling her to continue working for the nation. This collective appeal highlights the deep emotional connection and political significance she holds for her party and its followers.
Who is Khaleda Zia?
Khaleda Zia is a towering figure in Bangladeshi politics, while she's the widow of the late President Zia-ur Rahman and has herself served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh on multiple occasions. She's widely regarded as the chief political rival of Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister, while her political career has been marked by significant influence and a strong base of support. Her current health crisis is Because of this not just a personal tragedy. But a matter with profound implications for the country's political future.
Multiple Health Complications
The chest infection isn't the sole health challenge facing the BNP Chairperson. Khaleda Zia suffers from a range of severe and chronic health complications, including liver and kidney problems, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related diseases. These multiple ailments have Notably weakened her immune system, making her highly susceptible to infections and complicating her recovery process. The presence of such a complex array of health issues makes her current critical condition even more precarious for the medical professionals attending to her.
Family Background and Personal Life
Khaleda Zia's family includes her only surviving son, Tarique Rahman, who serves as. The acting chairman of the BNP and has been residing in London since 2008. Her other son, Arafat Rahman, tragically passed away from a heart attack in 2025. The geographical distance from her son Tarique, combined with the loss of Arafat, adds a personal dimension to her current health struggle, underscoring the challenges she faces beyond her political life.
Bangladesh's Evolving Political Landscape
Bangladesh has recently undergone a dramatic political transformation. On August 5, 2024, the Awami League government, led by then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was overthrown following violent student-led protests. In the wake of these events, the political landscape of Bangladesh has been fundamentally reshaped, with the BNP emerging as a leading party. Khaleda Zia's health status is Because of this a critical factor in this new political era. Any outcome regarding her health could Notably influence the direction and stability of the country's political future, given her party's renewed prominence.
Return from London
Khaleda Zia had returned to Bangladesh on May 6 of this year after spending four months in London for advanced medical treatment, while her return had initially brought some relief and hope regarding her health. However, the rapid deterioration of her condition shortly after her return highlights the persistent and severe nature of her underlying illnesses. This turn of events has intensified the concerns that have surrounded her health for a considerable period, leaving many anxious about what lies ahead.
