Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia Passes Away at 80 Ahead of National Elections

Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia died early on Tuesday, aged 80. The Bangladesh opposition leader passed away at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital, where treatment had continued for months. Her death comes as Bangladesh prepares for crucial national elections, in which the BNP is widely viewed as a leading contender.

Khaleda Zia shaped Bangladesh politics for decades and remained the main rival to Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, a long-serving leader, has been living in exile in New Delhi since 2024, after fleeing Bangladesh during nationwide unrest, according to The Daily Star.

Khaleda Zia death and political legacy in Bangladesh

Khaleda Zia was the first woman in Bangladesh to become prime minister. She first led the opposition BNP to victory in 1991, then served as prime minister from 1991 to 1996. Khaleda Zia later returned to office from 2001 to 2006, further cementing a central role in national politics.

Her political journey began after personal tragedy. Khaleda Zia married Ziaur Rahman in 1960. Ziaur Rahman became Bangladesh's president in 1977. Following Ziaur Rahman's assassination by military officers in 1981, Khaleda Zia entered active politics and took charge of the BNP in 1984, gradually building influence.

Khaleda Zia death, health struggles and recent medical care

In recent years, Khaleda Zia faced serious and prolonged health challenges. She had heart disease, liver and kidney ailments, diabetes, lung problems, arthritis and eye-related conditions. Doctors implanted a permanent pacemaker, and she previously received a cardiac stent. For months before death, Khaleda Zia stayed in Evercare Hospital's intensive care unit.

The Daily Star reported that Khaleda Zia returned from London on May 6 after advanced medical care. Since then, regular check-ups continued at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Despite fragile health, Khaleda Zia had pledged last month to campaign in the next general election, expected in early 2026, where the BNP hopes for electoral gains.

Her death closely follows the return of Khaleda Zia's son, Tarique Rahman, who came back to Bangladesh from London after 17 years of self-imposed exile. Tarique Rahman's arrival, just days before Khaleda Zia died, added further political attention as Bangladesh moves toward the upcoming polls.

The timing of Khaleda Zia's death, alongside Sheikh Hasina's exile and approaching elections, leaves Bangladesh dealing with a major shift. Her long presence, family history and electoral record ensured a lasting imprint on the BNP and on the wider political landscape.