Dhaka, Dec 30 (NationPress) The former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Begum Khaleda Zia, tragically passed away early Tuesday morning due to a prolonged illness at the age of 80, as confirmed by her party.

The BNP issued a statement confirming that Khaleda Zia died around 6 am at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she had been receiving treatment for over a month.

“The BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, the national leader Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away today at 6:00 am, shortly after the Fajr (dawn) prayer,” the statement revealed.

Party leaders and supporters expressed profound sorrow over her passing, honoring her legacy as a significant political figure who shaped Bangladesh’s modern political landscape. “We pray for her soul’s peace and encourage everyone to offer prayers for her departed spirit,” the BNP further stated.

Khaleda Zia had been hospitalized on November 23 due to severe complications linked to her heart and lungs. Reports from Bangladeshi media indicated that she had also been battling pneumonia during her final days. She was under constant medical observation for 36 days, with her condition described as delicate.

Throughout the years, the former Prime Minister faced numerous chronic health challenges, including liver cirrhosis, diabetes, arthritis, and persistent issues with her kidneys, lungs, heart, and vision. Her treatment involved a multidisciplinary medical team featuring specialists from Bangladesh along with doctors from the UK, USA, China, and Australia.

Discussions were held earlier this month regarding her transfer abroad for advanced medical treatment, but those plans were ultimately canceled after physicians advised that her health was too fragile for international travel.

Khaleda Zia, the widow of former President Ziaur Rahman, made history as the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, serving two terms in office. Despite enduring numerous legal and health battles, she remained a pivotal figure in national politics, with many supporters believing she could have significantly influenced upcoming elections.

She is survived by her elder son, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, his wife Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter Zaima Rahman. Tarique Rahman returned to Bangladesh on December 25 after spending 17 years in exile. Her younger son, Arafat Rahman Koko, passed away several years ago in Malaysia.

Tributes have been pouring in from party leaders, political allies, and supporters, marking the conclusion of an era in Bangladesh’s turbulent political history.