Former Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia passed away today at 6 AM, marking the end of a long chapter in Bangladesh’s political history.
She was undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where she had been admitted on November 23. Begum Zia had been battling advanced liver cirrhosis. Over the years, she also suffered from multiple chronic conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, and cardiac and chest-related complications.
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West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences through a social media post on Tuesday. Where the leader has stated, "Saddened by the demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and a prominent public leader. I extend my condolences to her family, friends and followers."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourns the death of the former Bangladesh Prime Minister. On his social media handle, he has reflected on his interaction with her in Dhaka in 2015. The post reads, "Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia in Dhaka. Our sincerest condolences to her family and all the people of Bangladesh. May the Almighty grant her family the fortitude to bear this tragic loss."
He added, "As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, her important contributions towards the development of Bangladesh, as well as India-Bangladesh relations, will always be remembered. I recall my warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015. We hope that her vision and legacy will continue to guide our partnership."
Bangladesh Awami League has also extended the condolences of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on their X handle. The post reads, " Sheikh Hasina expresses condolences on the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia - I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia.
The post also added, "As the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and for her role in the struggle to establish democracy, her contributions to the nation were significant and will be remembered. Her passing represents a profound loss for Bangladesh’s political life and for the leadership of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. I pray for the eternal peace and forgiveness of Begum Khaleda Zia’s soul."
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party chairperson.
