Khaleda Zia in “Extremely Critical” Condition: Doctors Issue Urgent Update in Dhaka
By Lions Roar News Asia Desk
DHAKA, BANGLADESH (December 29, 2025) – The health of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia, has taken a turn for the worse, with medical specialists describing her current state as “extremely critical.”
The 80-year-old leader, who has been battling multiple chronic illnesses, is currently undergoing intensive treatment at Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital. According to a late-night briefing by her personal physician, Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, the former premier is passing through a “very challenging and unstable” phase.
🏥 Medical Timeline: Fighting for Life
Khaleda Zia’s health has seen a rapid decline over the past month. Despite a brief period of stability mid-month, her condition deteriorated significantly over the weekend.
- November 23: Admitted to Evercare Hospital with a severe chest infection affecting both her heart and lungs.
- December 11: Placed on elective ventilator support after her oxygen levels dropped and carbon dioxide levels rose dangerously. Doctors noted this was done to give her vital organs a “necessary rest.”
- December 28: Dr. Zahid Hossain briefed the press, stating: “Her condition is extremely complex. If, by the grace of Almighty Allah and the tireless efforts of doctors, she can overcome this crisis, we may see a positive outcome.”
Zia is currently being monitored by a specialized medical board that includes local experts as well as international specialists from the UK and the US who are providing remote and on-site consultations.
🗳️ Political Stakes: The Return of Tarique Rahman
The news of her critical condition comes at a high-stakes moment for Bangladesh, which is preparing for a pivotal general election in February 2026.
Her eldest son and BNP Acting Chairman, Tarique Rahman, recently returned to Bangladesh after spending 17 years in self-imposed exile in London. Rahman visited his mother on Saturday night, spending over two hours by her bedside.
His return is seen as a major move to consolidate the BNP’s leadership as the party seeks to return to power following the political transition that began in late 2024. However, the party’s focus has shifted entirely to Zia’s survival, with leaders calling for nationwide prayers.
🌎 Legacy of a Pioneer
Khaleda Zia made history as Bangladesh’s first female Prime Minister and has served three terms in office. She has long been a towering figure in the country’s “Battle of the Begums” political landscape.
While the BNP has repeatedly requested that she be allowed to travel abroad for advanced medical care—specifically to London—doctors currently maintain that her physical condition is too unstable for air travel.
