Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia in 'Very Critical' Condition
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is currently battling a severe health crisis, described as "very critical" by her doctors, as she undergoes treatment in an intensive care unit. The 80-year-old political veteran was admitted to the hospital on November 23rd, presenting symptoms indicative of a lung infection. This latest development has sent ripples of deep concern through her family and the ranks of her Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
Doctors Confirm Critical State, Family Appeals for Prayers
Mirza Fakhrul Alamgir, a prominent secretary general of Zia's BNP, addressed reporters late Friday, unequivocally stating that "doctors have told us that her condition is very critical." This dire assessment led to a somber gathering of senior BNP leaders and anxious supporters at the hospital on Saturday, all seeking updates on her rapidly deteriorating health and offering fervent prayers for her recovery.
Adding to the emotional appeal, Zia's eldest son, Tarique Rahman, who has been based in London since 2008, took to social media on Saturday to implore the people of Bangladesh to pray for his mother's well-being. This collective call for prayers underscores the profound worry surrounding the former Prime Minister's condition.
Extensive Medical Challenges and Political Context
The medical team is contending with a host of chronic ailments affecting Ms. Zia. According to reports from the English-language newspaper, The Daily Star, her health issues include significant heart problems (for which she has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting), as well as liver and kidney complications, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses, all compounded by her current lung infection.
Her ongoing critical health also brings into sharper focus her long-standing political predicament. Khaleda Zia was sentenced to jail for corruption in 2018 under the administration of her political rival, Sheikh Hasina. A key aspect of her legal situation has been the continuous bar preventing her from traveling abroad to receive advanced medical treatment. This restriction remains a significant point of contention for her party and supporters, who have repeatedly advocated for her right to seek care internationally.