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Summary:

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has died at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Zia, who had advanced cirrhosis of the liver, arthritis, diabetes, and heart problems, passed away on December 30, 2025, in Dhaka. Her death marks the end of a significant era in Bangladeshi politics, characterized by a fierce rivalry with current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Despite being out of power since 2006 and facing corruption allegations (later overturned), Zia remained a popular figure. Her son, Tarique Rahman, is now seen as a strong contender to lead the BNP in the upcoming February elections.

News Article:

Khaleda Zia, Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister, Dies at 80

Dhaka, Bangladesh – December 30, 2025 – Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister and leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has died after a long illness. She was 80 years old.

The BNP confirmed Zia’s death, stating she passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 6:00 AM local time, shortly after dawn prayers. Zia had been suffering from advanced cirrhosis of the liver, arthritis, diabetes, and heart problems.

Zia’s political career was defined by a decades-long rivalry with current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, shaping Bangladeshi politics for a generation. Despite being out of power since 2006 and facing corruption charges, she remained a significant political force. The Supreme Court acquitted Zia in January 2025 in the last corruption case against her. She had returned to Bangladesh in May after undergoing medical treatment in the United Kingdom.

Zia entered politics after the assassination of her husband, President Ziaur Rahman, in a 1981 coup. She led the opposition movement against military rule and served as Prime Minister from 1991 and again from 2001.

While Zia has been out of power since 2006 and has spent time in jail and under house arrest, she retained strong support. The BNP is considered a frontrunner in the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for February. Her son, Tarique Rahman, who recently returned from exile, is considered a strong candidate to become the next prime minister.

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