Former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is at the crossroads of life and death.
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul and Special Assistant to the CA Monir Haider visited Evercare Hospital to enquire about the health condition of Begum Khaleda Zia and talked to doctors at the hospital to learn about Khaleda Zia's condition. In a Facebook post around 1 AM on Saturday, the Law Adviser wrote, "I went to Evercare Hospital and just returned. Begum Khaleda Zia's physical condition is not good at all. Please everyone pray for her."
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was also present at the hospital at that time, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Khaleda Zia, 80, was admitted to Evercare Hospital at night on November 23 following advice of the medical board after being diagnosed with infections in her heart and lungs. She is also suffering from pneumonia and is currently under intensive observation in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU), with supervision from both local and foreign specialist doctors.
Khaleda has long been suffering from multiple health complications, including heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, lung problems, arthritis and eye-related illnesses. She has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting of her heart.
Leaders of Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) went to Evercare Hospital on Saturday to enquire about the health condition of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. They went to the hospital at 10AMand spoke with the hospital doctors. The delegation included Tasnim Jara, senior joint member secretary of NCP; Nasiruddin Patwari, chief coordinator; and Hasnat Abdullah, chief coordinator (south).
On the other hand BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said although he strongly wishes to return home and to be at his mother's side, but he is unable to do so freely because of the current political realities. "On behalf of the Zia family, we express our sincere thanks and deep gratitude to everyone for their heartfelt prayers and love for the widely respected Begum Khaleda Zia. At the same time, we earnestly request everyone to continue praying for her speedy recovery."
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Tarique Rahman said that once the political situation allows, his long wait to return home will finally come to an end. "In such a moment of crisis, I too strongly long for my mother's affectionate touch, just like any child. But unlike others, I do not have the unrestricted freedom or sole authority to make that happen. There is also little scope to describe this sensitive matter in detail. Our family remains hopeful that once the political situation reaches the expected stage, my long and anxious wait to return to my homeland will finally come to an end."
He added, "Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and national leader Begum Khaleda Zia is severely ill and in a critical condition under intensive care at the hospital. Citizens from all sections of the country, regardless of political affiliation, have been sincerely continuing their prayers for her recovery."
Tarique also said the Chief Adviser has also offered prayers for her recovery and pledged full support for her treatment. The BNP leader said medical teams from Bangladesh and abroad continue to provide dedicated care with the highest level of professionalism and sincerity. ''Several friendly countries have also expressed their willingness to provide advanced treatment support and any other possible assistance required.''
