Bangladesh’s First Woman PM Khaleda Zia Passes Away at 79
Former Prime Minister dies after prolonged illness; had been on ventilator for 20 days battling kidney disease
Newsarc Bureau
DHAKA: Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged battle with multiple health complications. She was 79 years old.
Zia had been on ventilator support for the past 20 days at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she was receiving treatment for advanced kidney disease and other age-related ailments. Her condition had deteriorated significantly in recent weeks despite intensive medical care.
The two-time Prime Minister, who served from 1991-1996 and 2001-2006, had been suffering from various health issues including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, and diabetes. She had been admitted to the hospital multiple times over the past few years.
In a poignant turn of events, Zia had filed her nomination papers for upcoming elections just a day before her death, signaling her continued commitment to Bangladesh’s political landscape despite her failing health. The BNP had been hopeful about her participation in the electoral process.
“Bangladesh has lost a towering political figure,” said a BNP spokesperson. “Begum Khaleda Zia dedicated her entire life to democracy and the people of Bangladesh.”
Zia’s political career was marked by her fierce rivalry with current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which defined Bangladeshi politics for decades. She faced numerous legal challenges in recent years, including corruption convictions that her supporters claimed were politically motivated.
The BNP has announced a period of mourning, and preparations are underway for her state funeral. Political leaders from across the spectrum have expressed condolences, recognizing her significant role in shaping modern Bangladesh.
Her death marks the end of an era in Bangladeshi politics, leaving a void in the opposition movement she led for over three decades.
