Bangladesh Advisor Meets Khaleda Zia Amid Health Concerns

On Wednesday, Bangladesh's Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus visited former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she is facing serious health challenges. During the 30-minute visit, Yunus encouraged Zia's family, party members, and supporters to remain hopeful as her treatment progresses. According to his office, he received updates from the head of the medical team caring for Zia. This team includes specialists from two prominent US hospitals, as well as doctors from the UK, China, and other nations who are closely observing her health condition. Yunus pledged full government backing for her medical care.

Zia has been hospitalized since November 23 due to numerous health issues and was transferred to the Critical Care Unit (CCU) of Evercare Hospital on November 27 as her situation deteriorated. Despite regular updates from her personal physician, AZM Zahid Hossain, who also serves on the BNP's Standing Committee, specific details regarding her current health have not been disclosed to the public. Hossain previously mentioned that Zia is showing some response to the ongoing treatment.

Yunus's visit comes after notable visits from senior military leaders, including General Waker uz Zaman, Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, and Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood, who have all paid their respects to Zia recently. Family members, including her younger brother Shamim Iskandar and other close ones, have remained with her during this challenging time.

Tarique Rahman, Zia's elder son and the acting chairman of the BNP living in self-exile in London, has been managing her care from a distance. He recently shared on social media his feelings of longing for his mother and acknowledged the challenges he faces in influencing her treatment due to political and legal complications. Since moving to London in 2008, he has dealt with multiple legal issues in Bangladesh, some of which have been retracted or annulled. Authorities have confirmed there are no travel restrictions in place for him to return, and security measures would be provided, though he has not yet requested travel documents.

The global spotlight on Zia’s health continues to grow, with Chinese President Xi Jinping dispatching a second team of medical experts to assist, following the recent arrival of British doctors in Dhaka. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also voiced his concerns about her health and pledged full support, while Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has sent his prayers for her swift recovery.

Khaleda Zia remains in intensive care, with comprehensive oversight from both local and international medical professionals, as Bangladesh and neighboring nations watch closely concerning the health of this significant political figure.