Bangladesh Mourns as Political Icon Khaleda Zia Dies at 80

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has died. She passed away in Dhaka on December 30. The longtime opposition leader was 80 years old. Her death closes a major chapter in the nation’s history.Zia died while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital. She served as the country’s first woman prime minister. Her passing marks the end of a defining political rivalry.

End of an Era for Bangladeshi Politics

Khaleda Zia led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She served three terms as prime minister. Her final term ended in 2006.Her death concludes the famous “Battle of the Begums.” This was her decades-long rivalry with current opposition leader Sheikh Hasina. According to Reuters, both women dominated politics for over 30 years.The rivalry was deeply personal. It was also rooted in family legacies. Zia’s husband was a former president, while Hasina’s father was the nation’s founder.

A Legacy of Reform and Controversy

Zia’s first election win in 1991 was historic. She restored the parliamentary system. Her government also opened the economy to foreign investment.She introduced free primary education. Her policies helped grow the garment industry. This sector now employs millions of Bangladeshi women.Her later terms faced serious criticism. Allegations of corruption and political violence grew. Islamist extremism also increased during her tenure.Zia’s health declined in recent years. She suffered from liver and lung disease. She was imprisoned on graft charges in 2018.She was released from prison in 2024. Her release followed a major political shift in the country. She remained under medical care until her death.The BNP has declared a week of mourning. Black flags will fly at party offices nationwide. Prayer gatherings are being held across Bangladesh.Sheikh Hasina issued a formal condolence message. She acknowledged Zia’s contributions to democracy. The gesture highlights the profound shift her death represents.

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The death of Khaleda Zia removes a central figure from Bangladesh’s political landscape. The nation now looks ahead without its two most dominant leaders of the past generation. The future of the BNP and the country’s political direction remains uncertain.

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Who was Khaleda Zia?

Khaleda Zia was a former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. She led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She was the country’s first woman to hold the prime minister’s office.

What was the ‘Battle of the Begums’?

It was the long-running political rivalry between Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina. Their competition defined Bangladeshi politics for over three decades. Both leaders came from powerful political families.

What was the cause of Khaleda Zia’s death?

She died following a long illness. She had several serious health conditions including liver cirrhosis and lung problems. She was receiving hospital treatment in Dhaka.

How is Bangladesh reacting to her death?

The BNP has declared seven days of official mourning. Supporters are gathering at party offices. Condolence books have been opened for the public.

What happens to the BNP now?

The party faces a major leadership challenge. It must navigate a future without its iconic chairperson. This comes during a period of political transition for the entire country.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press.