DHAKA, Dec 4: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, 80, will be flown to London for advanced treatment after developing a severe chest infection affecting her heart and lungs, her personal physician AZM Zahid Hossain confirmed.
Zia, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), was admitted to a private hospital in Dhaka on November 23 and moved to the coronary care unit four days later due to worsening health complications.
The decision for her urgent transfer was made by an extended medical board, including recently arrived specialists from China and the United Kingdom.
Zia is expected to travel via Qatar Royal Air Ambulance late Thursday night or early Friday, accompanied by 14 people, including six doctors, BNP advisers, security personnel, and family members.
Two military and air force helicopters have conducted landing tests at the hospital to facilitate transport. The hospital has hosted Chinese and UK medical teams to chart an advanced treatment plan, with the second batch of Chinese doctors arriving Wednesday night.
Zia’s family, including her son Tarique Rahman, currently in London, and other close relatives, remain by her side.
Tarique expressed his concern on social media but noted that medical and logistical decisions were beyond his control. Authorities have stated they are ready to facilitate his travel if required.
Supporters across Bangladesh, from Dhaka to districts like Jhenaidah, Sunamganj, and Bagerhat, have held prayer gatherings for her recovery.
Interim government officials, including Chief Muhammad Yunus, and military leaders have also visited Zia in the hospital, underscoring the national attention her health crisis has drawn. (PTI)
