Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away at the age of 80 early Tuesday morning after a prolonged illness. The BNP confirmed her death, stating that she died at around 6 am at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she had been receiving treatment for over a month. Party leaders and supporters mourned her loss, recognizing her as a significant political figure in Bangladesh’s history.
Khaleda Zia had been hospitalized on November 23 due to severe complications related to her heart and lungs. Reports indicated that she also battled pneumonia in her final weeks. Despite receiving medical care for 36 days, her health remained fragile. Throughout the years, she faced various chronic health issues, including liver cirrhosis, diabetes, arthritis, and complications with her kidneys, lungs, heart, and eyesight.
The former Prime Minister, Khaleda Zia, who was the first woman to hold the position in Bangladesh, served two terms in office. Despite her health and legal challenges, she continued to be a prominent figure in national politics. Her supporters believed she could have had a significant role in future elections. Khaleda Zia is survived by her elder son, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter Zaima Rahman.
Discussions about transferring her abroad for advanced medical treatment were held recently but were abandoned due to her weakened physical state. Her younger son, Arafat Rahman Koko, passed away in Malaysia a few years ago. Tributes poured in from various political figures and supporters, marking the end of an era in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
