Bangladesh mourns the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia (Khaleda Zia), the country’s first woman Prime Minister and long-time chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She passed away today at 6 a.m., at the age of 80, after battling prolonged illness. Her death marks the end of an era in Bangladeshi politics, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, rivalry, and reform.
Early Life and Rise to Politics
Begum Khaleda Zia was born in 1945 in Dinajpur, Bangladesh (then East Bengal). She married Ziaur Rahman, a military officer who later became Bangladesh’s president. After his assassination in 1981, Khaleda Zia entered politics, stepping into the role of leadership at a time when the nation was still grappling with instability.
Her entry into politics was not just symbolic; it was transformative. She became the chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and quickly established herself as a formidable leader, earning respect for her determination and ability to mobilise grassroots support.
Political Career and Achievements
Khaleda Zia made history by becoming Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister in 1991, serving three terms in office (1991–1996, 2001–2006). Her leadership was marked by:
- Economic reforms that aimed to liberalise trade and encourage private enterprise.
- Infrastructure development, including expansion of roads and energy projects.
- Education initiatives, particularly for women and rural communities.
- Strengthening ties with international partners, balancing Bangladesh’s position between India, China, and the West.
Her tenure was not without challenges. She faced accusations of corruption, political unrest and fierce rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, the leader of the Awami League. The two women dominated Bangladeshi politics for decades, shaping the nation’s democratic journey through their rivalry.
Health Struggles and Final Days
In recent years, Khaleda Zia’s health had deteriorated significantly. She suffered from advanced liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, and complications related to her chest and heart. She was admitted to Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital, where she spent her final days under intensive care.
Her condition was described as “extremely critical” by her medical board on December 29, 2025. Just hours later, she breathed her last at 6 a.m. on December 30, 2025, surrounded by close aides and family members.
The Woman Behind the Leader
Beyond politics, Khaleda Zia was a mother, a widow, and a symbol of resilience. After losing her husband, she carried the weight of leadership while raising her children. Her son, Tarique Rahman, returned to Bangladesh from London just days before her death, ending 17 years of exile.
For millions of Bangladeshis, Khaleda Zia represented strength in adversity. She was often seen as a voice for conservative values, rural communities, and those who felt marginalised by the ruling elite. Her ability to connect with ordinary citizens made her more than just a politician—she was a figure of hope and defiance.
Legacy and Impact
- Khaleda Zia’s passing leaves a vacuum in Bangladeshi politics. Her legacy includes:
- Breaking barriers for women in leadership, inspiring future generations.
- Shaping Bangladesh’s democratic institutions, despite political turbulence.
- Championing nationalist values, which resonated with millions of supporters.
- A lifelong rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, which defined the nation’s political narrative for decades.
Her death comes at a critical time, as Bangladesh heads toward elections. The BNP now faces the challenge of continuing its vision while adapting to new realities.
Begum Khaleda Zia’s journey from a grieving widow to Bangladesh’s first woman Prime Minister is a story of resilience, courage and determination. Her death at 80 marks the end of a chapter in South Asian politics, but her influence will endure in the nation’s collective memory.
As Bangladesh mourns, her life serves as a reminder that leadership is not only about power—it is about perseverance, sacrifice, and the ability to inspire hope in times of uncertainty.
