Fri Nov 28 15:26:41 UTC 2025: Summary:

This news article, published in The Hindu’s e-paper on November 28, 2025, reports that the health of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia is “extremely critical.” The 80-year-old was hospitalized on November 23, 2025, with a chest infection affecting her heart and lungs. BNP leaders have organized prayers for her recovery, and Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has expressed concern and offered government support for her treatment. The article highlights the importance of Zia’s health in the context of Bangladesh’s current “democratic transition” following the toppling of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024. The piece also mentions her past health issues, her son Tarique Rahman’s residence in London, and BNP’s current position as a leading political force in Bangladesh.

News Article:

Khaleda Zia’s Health ‘Extremely Critical,’ Sparking National Concern

Dhaka, Bangladesh – November 28, 2025 – The health of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has deteriorated significantly, prompting widespread concern across the nation. According to a close aide, the 80-year-old Zia is in “extremely critical” condition after being admitted to a hospital on November 23 with a severe chest infection impacting her heart and lungs.

“Last night, the doctors said that her physical condition is extremely critical,” BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told the state-run BSS news agency.

The BNP organized special prayers for Zia’s recovery following Friday prayers. “We have sought prayers from the people across the country after Jummah prayers for the recovery of the ‘Mother of Democracy’, Begum Khaleda Zia. We pray that she may recover and return to the people to get the opportunity to work for the country,” Mr. Fakhrul added.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has also expressed deep concern, stating that the government is prepared to provide all necessary support for her treatment. “There must not be any shortcomings in Begum Khaleda Zia’s treatment. The government is prepared to provide all necessary support,” Yunus stated in a press release. “At this crucial moment of democratic transition, Begum Khaleda Zia is a profound source of inspiration for the nation. Her good health is extremely important for the country.”

Zia, the widow of former President Zia-ur Rahman, has been battling multiple health complications, including liver and kidney issues, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses.

The situation unfolds during a period of political upheaval in Bangladesh. The BNP has emerged as a leading political force following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government in August 2024, triggered by student-led protests.

Khaleda Zia had recently returned to Bangladesh on May 6 after spending four months in London seeking advanced medical treatment. Her son, Tarique Rahman, has resided in London since 2008.

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