Sun Nov 30 02:08:01 UTC 2025: ## News Article: Former Bangladesh PM Khaleda Zia Hospitalized, Family Calls for Prayers
Dhaka, Bangladesh – Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has been hospitalized and is in “very critical” condition, according to her party, the Bangladesh National Party (BNP). The 80-year-old politician was admitted to Evercare Hospital in Dhaka on November 23rd with a lung infection.
Zia’s personal physician, Dr. A Z M Zahid Hossein, told reporters that she remains in intensive care and is showing some response to treatment. However, he urged the public to continue praying for her recovery. Zia reportedly suffers from numerous health issues including heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. She has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting for her heart.
Her eldest son, Tarique Rahman, based in London since 2008, has also appealed to the people of Bangladesh to pray for his mother’s health. The BNP’s vice chairman, Ahmed Azam Khan, stated that an air ambulance is on standby should her condition stabilize enough for her to receive advanced treatment abroad.
Zia served three terms as Prime Minister and was imprisoned on corruption charges in 2018, a move which also prevented her from seeking medical treatment abroad. Released last year after Sheikh Hasina’s removal, she had expressed her intention to campaign in the upcoming elections expected in February 2026, where the BNP is widely expected to be a leading contender.
Supporters have gathered outside the hospital, expressing their concern and offering prayers for her swift recovery. Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, also issued a statement emphasizing the importance of Zia’s recovery for the country’s transitional period to democracy.
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