Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female prime minister and longtime leader of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), passed away on Tuesday after a prolonged illness, her party confirmed. She was 80.
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According to the BNP, Khaleda died at around 6:00am local time, shortly after the Fajr prayer. Doctors said she had been suffering from multiple serious ailments, including advanced liver cirrhosis, diabetes, arthritis, and heart and chest complications. Her condition had deteriorated sharply in recent weeks despite intensive medical care.
The BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister, Begum Khaleda Zia, passed away today at 6:00 a.m., shortly after the Fajr prayer. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji‘un. We pray for the forgiveness of her soul and request everyone to offer prayers for her departed soul. pic.twitter.com/KY2948UPD5
— Bangladesh Nationalist Party-BNP (@bdbnp78) December 30, 2025
Khaleda had remained a central political figure in Bangladesh for more than four decades. Widowed after the assassination of her husband, president Ziaur Rahman, in 1981, she later took over leadership of the BNP and emerged as one of the most influential leaders in the country’s history. She became prime minister in 1991 after Bangladesh’s first widely regarded free election, making history as the nation’s first woman to hold the office.
Her rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, leader of the Awami League and daughter of Bangladesh’s founding father, shaped the country’s politics for decades. The two leaders, known as the “battling begums,” alternated in power, with Khaleda serving a second term as prime minister from 2001 to 2006.
Khaleda’s later years were marked by legal battles and ill health. She was jailed on corruption charges in 2018 under Hasina’s government, accusations her party described as politically motivated. Her imprisonment and declining health prevented her from active politics, although she was released after Hasina was forced from power last year.
Despite frailty, Khaleda had expressed hope of campaigning ahead of elections scheduled for February 2026. Her death now comes at a critical moment, with the BNP seen as a frontrunner under the leadership of her son, Tarique Rahman.
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Leaders across South Asia, including Pakistan’s prime minister and president, paid tribute, acknowledging her legacy and long role in Bangladesh’s political life.
Heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Chairperson, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
May Allah SWT grant her high place in Jannah and patience to the bereaved family. Ameen.🤲 pic.twitter.com/aiJITyhzlW
— Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) December 30, 2025
President Asif Ali Zardari is deeply grieved by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. He extends heartfelt condolences to her family & the people of Bangladesh. Her leadership & services will be remembered with respect. May her soul rest in peace.
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) December 30, 2025
Deeply saddened by the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, Chairperson of the BNP and former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Her lifelong service to Bangladesh and its growth and development leaves a lasting legacy.
Begum Zia was a committed friend of Pakistan. My Government and the…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) December 30, 2025