Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and current Chairperson of the Bangladeshi National Party (BNP), has passed away at the age of 80, according to the BNP’s announcement early on Tuesday from Dhaka. Her life and death mark the end of an important chapter in Bangladesh’s history.
The Life and Legacy of a Trailblazer
Khaleda Zia was the first woman to hold the position of Prime Minister of Bangladesh; she served numerous terms as Prime Minister from the early 1990s to the early 2000s while leading the BNP through multiple political changeovers. Zia’s rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, which was not only personal, has had a significant impact on Bangladeshi politics in modern times as they have traded control back and forth.
Death Comes Ahead of Crucial National Election
Zia died at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka late Friday, where she had been receiving medical care since the end of November and had suffered from several chronic health ailments prior to her passing. The party released a statement announcing her death shortly after morning prayers on Friday.
Zia’s demise comes at a time when Bangladesh is undergoing a period of instability and uncertainty, leading up to national elections planned for February 2026.
Can Tarique Rahman Make History in the Upcoming Election?
As all eyes turn towards Tarique Rahman, Zia’s son, who is currently serving as acting chairman of the BNP, he has recently returned home from exile in the U.K. after nearly 17 years.
Rahman is likely to assume greater responsibilities with respect to party leadership and direct its electoral strategies going forward. Political experts suggest that Rahman’s role in the forthcoming elections may create historic ramifications for both the BNP and the democratic framework of Bangladesh.
