Bangladesh Ex-PM Khaleda Zia's Health Takes a Deteriorating Turn

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Bangladesh's opposition leader and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has seen her health sharply decline, with her condition described as 'extremely critical' by party officials. The 80-year-old was hospitalized on Sunday after a chest infection spread to her heart and lungs, according to reports. Khaleda Zia's condition has been a concern for some time due to her multiple health complications, including liver and kidney problems, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. Her family has been supportive, with her elder son, Tarique Rahman, acting as the BNP's chairman from London, where he has been based since 2008. The BNP has been a key force in Bangladesh's recent political landscape, following a student-led uprising that ousted the previous government in August 2024. Khaleda Zia returned to Bangladesh in May after receiving medical treatment in London. Meanwhile, the BNP has criticized the interim government for signing long-term agreements with foreign firms to run Bangladesh's major ports, arguing that the 'unelected' administration lacks the authority to make such commitments. The criticism comes after the interim government signed two significant deals last week, including a 30-year agreement with APM Terminals BV to operate the Laldia container terminal at Chattogram Port. In response to Khaleda Zia's condition, the BNP held special prayers for her recovery, seeking nationwide support. 'We have sought prayers from the people across the country after Jummah prayers for the recovery of the 'Mother of Democracy', Begum Khaleda Zia,' said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. 'We pray that she may recover and return to the people to get the opportunity to work for the country.' As the situation unfolds, the nation is holding its breath for Khaleda Zia's recovery, with many hoping for her swift return to politics and public life.