Why Has Khaleda Zia's Travel to London for Medical Treatment Been Delayed?
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Synopsis
The health of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has taken a concerning turn, leading to a delay in her travel to London for medical treatment. Local media reports reveal that a technical issue with her air ambulance has pushed back her departure date. Will her condition improve in time for the scheduled flight?
Key Takeaways
- Khaleda Zia's scheduled flight to London is delayed.
- Technical issues with the air ambulance are the cause of the delay.
- Her health condition has shown slight deterioration recently.
- Doctors will assess her fitness to travel before the new flight date.
- A medical board of specialists is involved in her treatment decisions.
Dhaka, Dec 5 (NationPress) The chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former Prime Minister, Khaleda Zia, is now unlikely to depart for London for advanced medical care before Sunday, due to a delay in her scheduled medical flight and a minor decline in her health condition, as reported by local media on Friday citing BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam.
In a statement to Bangladeshi media outlet UNB, Fakhrul mentioned that the special air ambulance arranged by the Emir of Qatar could not reach Dhaka on Friday owing to technical difficulties.
"The air ambulance is not arriving today because of a technical issue. If everything goes well, it may reach Dhaka on Saturday," the BNP leader explained.
Fakhrul added that the ultimate decision regarding Khaleda Zia's flight to the UK would hinge on her health status on the day of travel, noting that her condition had slightly worsened on Thursday night.
"A medical procedure will be performed today, after which the doctors will assess whether she is fit to fly. Everything depends on her health. If she is deemed fit for travel and the medical board approves, then the flight could happen on Sunday (December 7)," he indicated.
Previously, on Thursday, Khaleda Zia's personal physician and BNP Standing Committee member A Z M Zahid Hossain had mentioned that the former Prime Minister was anticipated to be flown to London for advanced medical care on Friday.
During a press briefing outside Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, Zahid stated that a medical board consisting of local and international specialists had unanimously agreed on this course of action.
"She will be transported to London by a Qatar Royal air ambulance. We have selected a hospital in London for her treatment, and arrangements are in place to take her there," UNB quoted Zahid as stating.
The 80-year-old former Prime Minister has been struggling with several longstanding health issues, including cardiac problems, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney complications.
She is currently under close observation in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of the hospital, with both local and foreign specialist physicians supervising her treatment.
Reports indicate that Khaleda Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital on the night of November 23, following the medical board's recommendation, after being diagnosed with infections impacting her heart and lungs.
As her condition deteriorated, she was transferred to the CCU of the hospital on November 27.
Point of View
We recognize the significant impact Khaleda Zia has had on Bangladesh's political landscape. Her health challenges are not just a personal matter but resonate with many in the nation. The BNP's ongoing commitment to her care and the logistical challenges surrounding her treatment highlight the complexities faced by prominent political figures. We remain steadfast in our coverage, ensuring the public stays informed on this crucial issue.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Khaleda Zia's travel to London postponed?
Khaleda Zia's travel to London was postponed due to a delay in her scheduled medical flight caused by technical issues with the air ambulance.
What health issues does Khaleda Zia face?
Khaleda Zia is battling multiple health conditions, including cardiac problems, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, and kidney complications.
When is Khaleda Zia expected to travel to London?
If her health permits and the medical board approves, Khaleda Zia may be able to travel to London on Sunday, December 7.
Who is overseeing Khaleda Zia's medical treatment?
Her treatment is being supervised by a medical board comprising both local and foreign specialists.
Where is Khaleda Zia currently receiving treatment?
Khaleda Zia is currently under intensive care at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka.
