Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Begum Khaleda Zia died during treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka in the early hours of Tuesday. The party gave this information in a statement on social media platform Facebook. He died at the age of 80.
BNP reported that Khaleda Zia died shortly after Fajr prayers, at around 6 am (local time). The party confirmed the news through a post on its verified Facebook page.
BNP said, “Khaleda Zia passed away at around 6:00 am, just after Fajr prayers. We pray for the repose of her soul and urge everyone to pray for her soul’s repose.”
Begum Khaleda Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital in the capital Dhaka on November 23 due to a lung infection. The 80-year-old former prime minister has been suffering from several physical ailments including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis and kidney problems for a long time.
Earlier this month, the former Bangladesh prime minister was flown to London for advanced medical treatment for her ailments.
His death comes at a crucial political moment, as Bangladesh prepares for national elections in February 2026 and political tensions run high following last year’s July uprising.
The former prime minister’s death follows the recent return of his son, BNP leader Tariq Rahman, to Bangladesh after years in exile.
Rehman was arrested in 2007–08 and after his release, he left the country and settled in London. After Sheikh Hasina’s government fell last year, he was acquitted in several cases filed during the Awami League rule, paving the way for his return.
Tariq Rahman arrived in Bangladesh last week and was welcomed by a large crowd of party leaders and supporters near the airport in what was seen as an important political event ahead of the upcoming elections.
After Tariq arrived in the country, he also visited his mother at Evercare Hospital. Further information regarding arrangements and official programs for Khaleda Zia’s funeral is awaited.