- Khaleda Zia departs for London for advanced medical treatment after seven years.
- BNP leaders and supporters line the streets to bid her farewell.
- London-based medical team to oversee her treatment at a reputed clinic.
- Tareq Rahman, her son, to receive her upon arrival at Heathrow Airport.
- Journey follows years of health complications and political turmoil.
Khaleda Zia, the Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, departed for London on Tuesday, 7 January, night for advanced medical treatment. The journey marks her first visit to the United Kingdom in seven years. A specially equipped air ambulance carried her from Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:46 PM local time.
Surrounded by a convoy of vehicles, Khaleda Zia left her Gulshan residence at 8:15 PM and reached the airport by 10:50 PM. Thousands of supporters and BNP leaders gathered along the route to offer their farewells, turning the streets from Gulshan to the airport into a sea of flags, posters, and slogans.
A Grand Farewell by BNP Leaders and Supporters
BNP leaders, including Secretary-General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, and senior members of the standing committee, such as Mirza Abbas and Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, were present at the airport to bid her farewell. Mirza Fakhrul expressed his hopes for her swift recovery, saying, “We pray that she returns to us healthy and strong.”
Supporters also lined the streets, forming a “human chain” stretching from her residence to the airport. Enthusiastic chants, waving of party flags, and banners bearing her image dominated the atmosphere. Some supporters took selfies and videos as her motorcade passed by, despite tight security measures.
The farewell procession reflected the deep emotional connection many BNP supporters have with their leader. Women’s Wing General Secretary Sultana Ahmed remarked, “Khaleda Zia is not just a political figure; she represents hope for millions of Bangladeshis.”
Despite calls from BNP leaders for orderly gatherings, the streets were overwhelmed by supporters. Volunteers and security personnel struggled to manage the crowd as the motorcade slowly progressed to the airport.
Health Concerns Prompt London Visit
Khaleda Zia, 79, has been battling multiple health issues, including liver cirrhosis, heart disease, and kidney complications. Her personal physician, Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, confirmed that upon arrival in London, she would be admitted to a reputed clinic for specialized treatment. “Tareq Rahman, her elder son and the BNP’s acting chairman, will receive her at Heathrow Airport,” he added.
This visit has been long anticipated. BNP leaders have previously appealed for her release for medical treatment abroad, but political barriers delayed the process. Khaleda Zia’s last visit to London in 2017 was also for medical purposes, during which she underwent prolonged treatment before returning to Bangladesh in October of that year.
A Journey Marked by Political Turmoil
The trip follows significant political developments in Bangladesh. Earlier this year, Khaleda Zia was released from house arrest after serving time due to her convictions in controversial corruption cases. Her supporters have long claimed that the charges were politically motivated by the then-government led by Sheikh Hasina.
The journey also symbolizes a long-awaited reunion between Khaleda Zia and her son. BNP leaders confirmed that Tareq Rahman, along with his family and London-based party officials, would greet her upon arrival.
The farewell procession reflected the deep emotional connection many BNP supporters have with their leader. Women’s Wing General Secretary Sultana Ahmed remarked, “Khaleda Zia is not just a political figure; she represents hope for millions of Bangladeshis.”
Despite calls from BNP leaders for orderly gatherings, the streets were overwhelmed by supporters. Some even risked safety to catch a glimpse of their leader. Volunteers and security personnel struggled to manage the crowd as the motorcade slowly progressed to the airport.
Political Implications and Future Prospects
This journey holds broader implications for BNP and its future leadership. Khaleda Zia’s extended absence could pave the way for Tareq Rahman to play a more active role in the party’s leadership. BNP leaders expressed their hopes for a successful treatment and her eventual return to lead the party.
BNP supporters remain optimistic about her recovery. Youth Wing leader Giyasuddin Mamun expressed his faith, saying, “She will return stronger, ready to guide the party and the nation.”
Khaleda Zia’s London trip has garnered significant attention in Bangladesh, symbolizing both her personal health challenges and the enduring loyalty of her supporters. As she begins her treatment abroad, BNP leaders and followers eagerly await her recovery and eventual return to the political stage.