Former prime minister Khaleda Zia is in “very critical” condition as she undergoes treatment for multiple infections and longstanding health problems, senior Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) officials said Friday.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir urged the nation to pray for her recovery, while Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus expressed deep concern and said her wellbeing carries national importance during Bangladesh’s democratic transition.
Khaleda, 80, was admitted to Evercare Hospital on Nov. 23 with infections in her heart and lungs and is now receiving care in the Coronary Care Unit. Doctors say her kidney function has deteriorated. If her condition permits, the medical board may attempt to send her to the United Kingdom or Singapore for advanced treatment. She serves as the figurehead chairwoman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.
Zia served as prime minister of Bangladesh twice, from 1991 to 1996 and 2001 to 2006, and is the widow of President Ziaur Rahman, a military leader widely regarded as one of Bangladesh’s founding figures and the founder of the BNP.