The political landscape of Bangladesh is holding its breath as former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia fights for her life in a Dhaka hospital. The 80-year-old leader's health took a serious turn, leading to her admission into intensive care and prompting urgent calls for prayers from her family and political allies.
Intensive Care and Critical Health Status
Khaleda Zia was admitted to the hospital on November 23 after showing symptoms of a lung infection. By late Friday, her condition had deteriorated to a "very critical" state, according to a statement from her party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). On Saturday, BNP member Ahmed Azam Khan confirmed to reporters gathered outside the hospital that the former prime minister was in the intensive care unit and that ongoing consultations with a team of physicians were taking place.
The gravity of the situation is underscored by the preparations for a potential medical evacuation. Khan revealed that an air ambulance has been kept on standby, ready to transport Zia abroad for more advanced treatment, but only if her condition becomes stable enough to make the journey.
A Multitude of Health Challenges
The former leader's fragile health is compounded by a long list of serious ailments. As reported by The Daily Star, Khaleda Zia's medical profile is complex. She suffers from heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, lung problems, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. To manage her cardiac condition, she has a permanent pacemaker and has previously undergone heart stenting procedures.
The news has drawn a stream of anxious visitors to the hospital. Several senior BNP leaders and countless concerned supporters have been arriving to get the latest updates on the health of their beloved leader, creating a somber atmosphere outside the medical facility.
Family's Heartfelt Appeal from Afar
From his home in London, Khaleda Zia's eldest son, Tarique Rahman, made a fervent public appeal. The 60-year-old, who has been living abroad since 2008, took to social media on Saturday to call upon the people of Bangladesh to pray for his mother's speedy recovery.
"We express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all your prayers and love for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia," Rahman wrote. "We fervently request you to continue your prayers for her early recovery."
Rahman also addressed his conspicuous absence from his mother's bedside during this crisis. He explained that a return to Bangladesh is not a simple or unilateral decision for him, citing circumstances beyond his control. He shared his deep personal anguish, stating, "I share the same deep longing as any child to have my mother's touch in moments of crisis." His words highlighted the painful personal and political exile that separates him from his ailing mother during her most vulnerable hour.
