• Source:JND

Khalda Zia Death News: Bangladesh's first female prime minister, Khaleda Zia, died after a prolonged illness, her opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party said on Tuesday. Khaleda, aged 80, had advanced cirrhosis of the liver, arthritis, diabetes, chest and heart problems, her doctors said.

BNP confirms about Khaleda Zia's death

The BNP said Khaleda Zia died at around 6 am (local time), shortly after the Fajr prayer. The party confirmed the news through posts on its verified Facebook page.

“The BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away today at 6:00 a.m., shortly after the Fajr prayer. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji‘un. We pray for the forgiveness of her soul and request everyone to offer prayers for her departed soul,” her party, BNP, wrote on X.

Khaleda Zia's heath issues

She was undergoing treatment at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23 for multiple health complications. On December 11, she was placed on ventilator support to give rest to her lungs and other vital organs.

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Her death comes at a crucial political moment, with Bangladesh preparing for national elections scheduled for February 2026 and amid heightened political tensions following last year's July Uprising.

Tarique Rahman returns

Her son and BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman, who returned Dhaka after living 17 years in exile, had spent more than two hours at the hospital after landing from UK.

Rahman left the country after being arrested in 2007-08 and later settled in London following his release. After the removal of Sheikh Hasina's government last year, he was acquitted in several cases filed during the Awami League period, clearing the way for his return.

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Rahman arrived in Bangladesh last week and was welcomed by a large gathering of party leaders and supporters near the airport, in what was seen as a major political event ahead of the upcoming elections.

Following Tarique arrival in the country, he also visited her mother in the Evercare Hospital.

Further details regarding Khaleda Zia's funeral arrangements and official programmes are awaited.

(With inputs from agencies)


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