This poses a major challenge to the BNP, which is navigating a renewed political role while its historic leader, recently freed and acquitted, battles for her life. (Image: X)
The political landscape of Bangladesh was gripped with concern as news emerged on Friday regarding the sharply deteriorating health of former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia. The 80-year-old leader's condition was described as "extremely critical" by a senior party official, casting a shadow over her party's recent political resurgence.
She is not just a former prime minister; she is a defining force in the nation's history. Khaleda Zia made history as Bangladesh's first female prime minister, serving three separate terms. Her journey into politics began after the assassination of her husband, President Ziaur Rahman, in 1981. After that, she became leadership of the BNP and spearheaded a strong pro-democracy movement that resulted in the parliamentary system's restoration in 1991.
For years, her political career was shaped by a fierce rivalry with Sheikh Hasina of the Awami League. In recent times, she also faced major legal troubles, ending in a 2018 corruption sentence and jail term. Her supporters always claimed the charges were politically driven. Things shifted after Sheikh Hasina’s fall in August 2024, bringing her release and eventual acquittal.
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Khaleda Zia was rushed to the hospital on Sunday night after suffering from a chest infection. The situation escalated when the infection reportedly spread to her heart and lungs. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir confirmed how serious the situation is, saying, “Last night, the doctors told us her condition is extremely critical.” The news has created deep concern among her supporters and party members, especially because of her long and complicated medical history.
In response to the grave news, the BNP has turned to the public for spiritual support. Following Friday prayers, the party held special prayers across the country for her recovery. Mirza Fakhrul publicly stated, "We have sought prayers from the people across the country after Jummah prayers for the recovery of the 'Mother of Democracy', Begum Khaleda Zia." This call for prayers underscores her symbolic importance to the party and its voter base during this uncertain time.
Khaleda Zia has been dealing with several severe health issues for a long time. Her reports mention liver and kidney problems, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related diseases. She had only recently come back to Bangladesh in May after four months of care in London, so this sudden decline is especially troubling.
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The timing of this health emergency is crucial. The BNP has recently regained its footing in Bangladesh's transformed political scene after the student-led uprising in August 2024. Just this Tuesday, the party was actively criticizing the interim government's long-term port agreements with foreign firms. This shows a party trying to maintain its political momentum while its iconic leader faces a severe health battle. Her absence could have profound implications for the party's direction and unity.
