Khaleda Zia in “Very Critical” Condition, Supporters Urge Nation to Pray

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh National Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia remains in a “very critical” condition, according to senior party leaders and her medical team, as thousands across the country pray for her recovery.

The 80-year-old leader, who was admitted to Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital on November 23 with symptoms of a lung infection, continues to be treated in the intensive care unit. Her personal physician, Dr A Z M Zahid Hossein, briefed the media on Saturday, saying her clinical condition has remained unchanged for the last three days.

“At this moment, I can say her condition has been in the same stage for the last three days. In doctors’ language, we say ‘she is responding to the treatment’,” Hossein told reporters, urging the nation: “Please pray so that she can continue to receive this treatment.”

His remarks followed BNP secretary-general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s earlier statement that Zia’s health was “very critical”.

According to the Daily Star, Zia is battling multiple complications, including heart problems, diabetes, liver and kidney issues, lung complications, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. She also has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent heart stenting.

Air Ambulance on Standby

BNP vice-chairman Ahmed Azam Khan said an air ambulance has been kept ready to fly the former prime minister abroad for advanced treatment once doctors consider her stable enough for travel.

Zia’s elder son, Tarique Rahman, currently based in London, expressed gratitude to supporters nationwide. In a social media message, he asked people to “continue your prayers for her early recovery”.

Nation Watches With Concern

Outside Evercare Hospital, anxious supporters gathered throughout the day. One of them, 45-year-old driver Liton Molla, said he rushed there upon hearing the news.

“I just pray she recovers and can contest in the election,” he told AFP. “At this moment, Bangladesh needs a leader like Khaleda Zia.”

A Central Figure in Bangladesh’s Democratic Transition

Zia, who served as prime minister for three terms, was jailed on corruption charges in 2018 under the then-Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina, which also restricted her from travelling abroad for medical care. She was released last year following Hasina’s ouster.

Despite her deteriorating health, the BNP chief has vowed to participate in the upcoming February 2026 national elections, in which her party is widely seen as a key contender.

Bangladesh’s interim head of government, Muhammad Yunus, issued a statement saying, “During this transitional period to democracy, Khaleda Zia is a source of utmost inspiration for the nation. Her recovery is very important for the country.”

As the political landscape shifts and the election season nears, the condition of the ailing leader has become a matter of national concern, with prayers continuing across Bangladesh for her quick recovery.

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