Khaleda Zia passed away after a brave fight against several ailments. Read to know about the late Bangladesh PM's health condition before her death.
Begum Khaleda Zia, the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh, died at the age of 80 on December 30, 2025. The former chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) passed away at approximately 6:00 a.m. in the morning. She had been battling prolonged illnesses, including infections and other issues, and was on life support in her final moments. Khaleda Zia died while undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Her elder son, Tarique Rahman, was reported to be by her side as she breathed her last. Amid an outpouring of condolences for the former Bangladeshi PM's family, here's what we know about her reason for demise.
Khaleda Zia's medical reports and statements from her medical team indicate that her death was the result of a combination of severe infections and long-term organ failure. Khaleda Zia was admitted to the hospital on November 23, 2025, with a severe lung infection that later developed into pneumonia, leading to respiratory failure. She also developed a chest infection, which placed extreme stress on her heart. The former Bangladeshi PM had a history of cardiac issues and relied on a permanent pacemaker for survival. Khaleda Zia has also been suffering from advanced liver cirrhosis for an extended period, which had significantly weakened her body.
In addition to the acute infections, Khaleda Zia's health had been deteriorating due to multiple long-term conditions. Begum Khaleda suffered from chronic diabetes and kidney complications, which led to her health deteriorating. Additionally, severe rheumatoid arthritis had affected her mobility and health for years. Doctors described her final condition as "extremely critical," noting that she was suffering from "complex problems of many organs." In her final weeks before death, Khaleda Zia was placed on a ventilator to assist her breathing. Still, her condition remained critical, which prevented her from traveling to London for advanced treatment.
On December 30, 2025, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) declared seven days of official mourning following the death of its chairperson and former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia. As part of the mourning period, black flags are being raised at BNP offices nationwide for a week. The party leaders, activists, and supporters are wearing black badges to honour Khaleda Zia. Doa mahfils (prayer gatherings) and Quran recitations are being held at party venues across Bangladesh to pray for her soul. The Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, announced that Khaleda would be accorded a state funeral. Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi also expressed his grief, noting Khaleda Zia's significant contributions to Bangladesh’s development.
Khaleda Zia's surviving immediate and extended family members include her son, two daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren. Her eldest son, Tarique Rahman, is her political heir. He is currently the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). He returned to Bangladesh on December 25, 2025, after 17 years in exile. Tarique is married to Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and they have a daughter, Zaima Rahman. Begum Khaleda's younger son, Arafat Rahman 'Koko', who died in 2015. His widow, Sharmila Rahman Sithi, and their two daughters, Zahia and Zaifa Rahman, also form a part of Khaleda's surviving family.
We offer our heartfelt condolences to Khaleda Zia's family as they deal with her loss.
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