BNP chairman Khaleda Zia hospitalized; condition ‘extremely critical’ – The Times of India

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is in “extremely critical” condition, a close aide said on Friday, as she continues treatment at the hospital. The 80-year-old leader was admitted on Sunday evening after developing a respiratory infection that affected both her heart and lungs.“Last night the doctors said that her physical condition is extremely critical,” BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said on Friday, as quoted by PTI, citing state news agency BSS.After Friday prayers, the BNP organized special prayer meetings across the country for her recovery. “We have sought prayers from the people across the country after the Jummah prayers for the recovery of the ‘Mother of Democracy’, Begum Khaleda Zia. We pray that she may recover and return to the people to get an opportunity to work for the country,” Fakhrul added.Chief Counsel Muhammad Yunus expressed deep concern over Zia’s condition and urged everyone to pray for her speedy recovery. His office said Yunus regularly inquires for updates on her health and has instructed officials to ensure any form of necessary medical support. “There should be no shortcomings in the treatment of Begum Khaleda Zia. The government is ready to provide all necessary support,” Yunus said. “At this crucial moment of democratic transition, Begum Khaleda Zia is a profound inspiration to the nation. Her good health is extremely important to the country.”Zia has long suffered from multiple health complications, including liver and kidney problems, diabetes, arthritis and eye-related diseases. She is the widow of assassinated President Zia-ur Rahman. Her eldest son, Tarique Rahman, has lived in London since 2008, while her youngest son, Arafat Rahman, died of cardiac arrest in 2025.As national elections approach next year, Zia’s health is seen as particularly important for the party. The BNP has emerged as a major player in Bangladesh’s changing political landscape after a student-led protest toppled Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government on August 5, 2024.Earlier this year, Zia returned to Bangladesh from London on May 6 after spending four months abroad for advanced medical treatment.