Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina—now ousted from power and living in exile—has expressed “deep concern” over the deteriorating health of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.According to a report published by Indian news agency IANS at 11:56 am on Tuesday (9 December), Hasina conveyed her concern in an email interview, wishing Khaleda Zia a speedy recovery.Responding to questions about Khaleda Zia’s critical health condition and the tightened security measures at the hospital where she is being treated, Hasina said:
“I am extremely worried to hear that Khaleda Zia has fallen seriously ill. I pray for her swift recovery.”

Background of Khaleda Zia’s Legal and Medical History

Khaleda Zia was jailed in 2018 during the Awami League government after being convicted in a corruption case. Two years later, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the government suspended her sentence and released her temporarily under conditions. Although her family and party repeatedly requested permission for her to travel abroad for medical treatment, the government at the time refused to grant it.

Following the mass uprising of 2024 that ended the Awami League’s 15-year rule, Sheikh Hasina fled to India. The changed political landscape that followed allowed Khaleda Zia to receive full release, and she was later acquitted in the corruption case by the court.

War Crimes Charges Against Hasina

Meanwhile, in a separate development, the International Crimes Tribunal has handed Sheikh Hasina a death sentence in a case related to crimes against humanity during the crackdown on mass protests.