Medical history and complications
According to The Daily Star, Zia suffers from heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, lung ailments, arthritis, and eye-related conditions. She has a permanent pacemaker and has previously undergone heart stenting.
Family appeals for support
Her eldest son, Tarique Rahman, based in London since 2008, requested citizens of Bangladesh to pray for her recovery via social media on Saturday. “We express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all your prayers and love for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia,” Rahman, 60, said. He added that returning to Bangladesh was not straightforward due to circumstances beyond his control.
Zia, a three-term prime minister, was jailed for corruption in 2018 under Sheikh Hasina’s government, which also barred her from travelling abroad for medical care. She was released last year, shortly after Hasina’s ouster.
Interim BNP leader Muhammad Yunus described Zia as “a source of utmost inspiration for the nation” and stressed that her recovery is crucial for the country.
Election plans amid illness
Despite her health challenges, Zia has vowed to campaign in the upcoming elections expected in February 2026, where BNP is widely regarded as a frontrunner.