DHAKA: Former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is scheduled to return to Dhaka on Monday following an extended period of medical treatment in London, according to BNP Joint Secretary-General AZM Zahid Hossain.
Hossain confirmed that her health has significantly improved, and barring any last-minute complications, the BNP is preparing a warm reception for her return.
During her stay in London, Khaleda Zia was treated for several chronic health conditions, including liver cirrhosis, kidney issues, heart ailments, diabetes, and arthritis. She resided at the home of her son, Tarique Rahman—the party’s acting chairman—and underwent treatment at a private London clinic, where she spent 17 days in the ICU.
She will be accompanied on her flight back by Dr. Farzana Hassan, as well as her daughters-in-law, Dr. Zubaida Rahman and Syeda Sharmila Rahman Sinthi. Due to the unavailability of air ambulance options, her return will be on a specially arranged Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, equipped with necessary medical support for her comfort.
Khaleda Zia was convicted in a corruption case in 2018, but was released during the COVID-19 pandemic through a government pardon. Following the change in government last August, her release was formalized via a Presidential order.
Her return from London, where she spent Eid with her family, marks a potential step back into the political spotlight after years of legal challenges and health battles
[Source Credit: DHAKA TRIBUNE]
