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Bangladesh Mourns: Former PM Khaleda Zia Passes Away at 80

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia has died at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson had been suffering from a lung infection and multiple long-term ailments. Her death occurs at a pivotal political moment as the nation prepares for the 2026 general elections and follows the recent return of her son, senior BNP leader Tarique Rahman, from exile. Funeral arrangements and official programmes are currently pending.

Key Points: Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia Dies at 80

  • Former PM & BNP chairperson dies at 80
  • Passed away in Dhaka hospital after long illness
  • Death comes ahead of 2026 national elections
  • Follows her son Tarique Rahman's return from exile
2 min read

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at 80

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia has died at 80. Her passing occurs amid national election preparations and her son's political return.

"We pray for the eternal peace of her soul - Bangladesh Nationalist Party statement"

Dhaka, December 30

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia passed away early Tuesday while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, the party said in a statement on social media platform Facebook.

She died at the age of 80.

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.

"Khaleda Zia passed away at around 6:00am, just after Fajr prayer," the BNP said. The party added, "We pray for the eternal peace of her soul and ask everyone to pray for her departed soul."

Begum Khaleda Zia was admitted to the capital Dhaka's Evercare Hospital on November 23 with a lung infection. The 80-year-old former Prime Minister has been suffering from various physical ailments, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney complications, for a long time.

Earlier this month, the former Bangladeshi PM was sent to London for advanced medical treatment for her ailments.

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.

The former prime minister's passing also follows the recent return of her son, BNP leader Tarique Rahman, to Bangladesh after years in exile.

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.

Tarique 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.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Passing away just after Fajr prayers is considered very auspicious in our traditions. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un. Her passing right after her son's return is poignant. Wishing stability for our neighbour in this sensitive time.
A
Aman W
Her death will definitely change the political calculus before the 2026 elections. Tarique Rahman's return was already a big move. Hope this doesn't lead to more unrest. Bangladesh needs peace and development.
S
Sarah B
While I offer my sympathies for her passing, it's important to remember the complex legacy of any political leader. The article mentions cases against her son being acquitted after a change in government. This highlights the often-turbulent nature of politics in the region.
V
Vikram M
80 is a good age, but she suffered from so many ailments. It's a reminder for all of us to take care of our health. Om Shanti. India has always shared a deep historical and cultural bond with Bangladesh. May the country navigate this period with wisdom.
K
Kavya N
As a woman, I respect her for reaching the highest office in her country. It's never easy. Her story is one of immense political struggle. Heartening that she got to see her son before her final journey. 🕊️

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