Former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia’s health crisis fuels political uncertainty as her son Tarique Rahman weighs return.
 |
| People and journalists gather outside Evercare hospital in Dhaka on November 29, 2025, as former Bangladeshi prime minister Khaleda Zia receives ICU treatment. Photo by Munir Uz Zaman/AFP/Getty Images |
Bangladesh's former prime minister and opposition leader Khaleda Zia remains in a critical condition at a Dhaka hospital, her party confirmed on Sunday, adding to political uncertainty as her exiled son and acting Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief Tarique Rahman has yet to announce a return. The 80-year-old leader was admitted to a private hospital on November 23 with a severe chest infection affecting both her heart and lungs, according to medical officials and senior BNP figures.
Her deteriorating health comes at a pivotal time for the BNP, which has seen a resurgence in political influence after the removal of Sheikh Hasina from office in a student-led movement last year. The party, which has historically been a central force in Bangladesh’s politics, is now navigating a period of leadership vulnerability and strategic recalibration amid the matriarch’s illness.
Tarique Rahman, who has resided in London since 2008, fueled speculation about his political and personal plans when he posted on Facebook on Saturday that his return to Bangladesh was “not entirely” within his control. The message triggered widespread debate over whether his absence could hinder the BNP’s ability to consolidate power or respond effectively to shifting political dynamics.
Hours after Rahman’s statement, the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus clarified its position, emphasizing that there are no legal or political restrictions preventing the BNP acting chairman from returning. “There are no obstacles in this matter,” said Shafiqul Alam, Yunus’ press secretary, in a Facebook post. Despite this assurance, Rahman’s hesitation has left party members and observers uncertain about the timing of his potential return.
Khaleda Zia’s grave health condition has compounded uncertainty within the BNP. As the party’s matriarch and symbol of its legacy, her wellbeing is closely tied to internal cohesion, public perception, and strategic decision-making. Analysts note that the leadership vacuum created by her illness, combined with Rahman’s delayed return, could influence the BNP’s positioning in upcoming local and national elections.
The BNP has historically faced challenges in maintaining organizational unity during periods of crisis. The party boycotted the disputed national elections in both 2014 and 2024, decisions that led to shifts in parliamentary power and significant debates over electoral legitimacy. Since August, however, the party has regained momentum, mobilizing supporters and building momentum for a potential return to prominence.
“The current situation tests the party’s resilience,” said political analyst Farida Akhtar. “With Khaleda Zia in critical condition and Tarique Rahman still abroad, the BNP must carefully navigate both internal leadership decisions and the broader electoral landscape.”
Medical authorities treating Khaleda Zia have described her as being in a “very critical” state, with complications arising from a severe chest infection that has strained her cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Hospital officials have not disclosed detailed updates regarding her treatment regimen, citing privacy concerns, but the situation has drawn national and international attention.
Party sources indicate that senior BNP leaders are maintaining a 24-hour presence at the hospital to oversee her care and communicate developments. “We are closely monitoring her condition and coordinating with medical staff,” said a senior party official who requested anonymity. “Her wellbeing is our top priority, but we are also aware of the political responsibilities that rest on her shoulders.”
BNP’s political positioning
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s revival comes amid a shifting political environment. The party’s resurgence follows years of declining influence due to internal divisions, government crackdowns, and public dissatisfaction with traditional political structures. Khaleda Zia’s continued prominence, even while hospitalized, serves as a rallying point for supporters and underscores her symbolic role in the party’s identity.
Tarique Rahman’s potential return is seen as critical for consolidating the party’s leadership and ensuring strategic coherence. However, his prolonged absence has led some observers to question whether the BNP can sustain momentum without its acting chairman present on the ground in Bangladesh.
“The party is at a crossroads,” said political commentator Imran Hossain. “Khaleda Zia’s condition brings emotional and symbolic weight, but organizationally, the BNP must also prepare for a leadership transition, whether temporary or permanent.”
News of Khaleda Zia’s critical condition has reverberated across Bangladesh and the international community. Supporters have expressed concern on social media, with calls for prayers and well-wishes for her recovery. The situation has also drawn attention from international political observers, given the BNP’s historical influence on Bangladesh’s governance and foreign relations.
Observers note that the political stability of Bangladesh could be affected if Khaleda Zia’s condition worsens or if Rahman’s return is delayed. The BNP’s ability to participate in upcoming electoral processes, negotiate alliances, and maintain grassroots support may be challenged during this sensitive period.
Khaleda Zia, who has served multiple terms as Bangladesh’s prime minister, has long been a central figure in the nation’s political narrative. Her leadership has often been juxtaposed with that of Sheikh Hasina, the long-serving leader who was ousted in last year’s student-led movement. The rivalry between the two political families has shaped policy, governance, and political discourse in Bangladesh for decades.
Rahman, Khaleda Zia’s son, has been a controversial figure due to his extended exile and involvement in previous legal cases. His return to Bangladesh is widely viewed as a symbolic and practical step that could influence the BNP’s strategy in consolidating power and negotiating political alliances.
As Khaleda Zia remains in critical condition, the BNP faces a delicate balancing act: ensuring her health and wellbeing while maintaining party unity and preparing for the political challenges ahead. Analysts suggest that the party may need to implement contingency plans to navigate leadership responsibilities, public engagement, and electoral strategy in the coming months.
The situation underscores the intertwining of personal health and political dynamics in Bangladesh’s contemporary landscape. Khaleda Zia’s condition is not only a human concern but also a pivotal factor in the direction of the BNP and the broader political trajectory of the country.
As the nation waits for updates on her health, all eyes are also on Tarique Rahman’s decisions, which could have lasting implications for the party’s future. The BNP’s leadership, supporters, and political analysts remain vigilant, recognizing that the coming weeks could define the party’s path in Bangladesh’s evolving political environment.
