Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia passed away at the age of 80 in Dhaka on Tuesday after a prolonged illness. The BNP confirmed that she died at a private hospital where she had been undergoing treatment for several health complications.
Khaleda Zia was a central figure in Bangladesh’s politics for more than three decades. She made history in 1991 by becoming the country’s first woman Prime Minister, leading the nation after the restoration of democracy. She served two terms as prime minister, from 1991 to 1996 and again from 2001 to 2006. Her leadership and long-running political rivalry with Sheikh Hasina shaped Bangladesh’s political landscape for years.
Following news of her death, condolences poured in from leaders in Bangladesh, India and other countries, reflecting her stature in regional politics.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief in a message posted on X. He said he was “deeply saddened” by the passing of the former prime minister and extended his sincere condolences to her family and the people of Bangladesh. Modi noted that as Bangladesh’s first woman prime minister, Khaleda Zia made important contributions to the country’s development and to India-Bangladesh relations. He also recalled his warm meeting with her in Dhaka in 2015 and said her vision and legacy would continue to guide bilateral ties.
Leaders within Bangladesh also paid tribute. Political figures described her as a key leader in the country’s democratic journey and acknowledged her role in shaping national politics during a critical period in its history. Prayers were offered for her soul and messages of sympathy were extended to her family and party supporters.
International reactions also followed. Leaders from neighbouring and friendly countries conveyed condolences, remembering Khaleda Zia’s role in strengthening diplomatic relations and her influence as one of South Asia’s prominent women leaders.
Khaleda Zia’s death marks the end of an era in Bangladesh’s politics. Supporters remember her as a determined leader who played a historic role in democratic governance, while her legacy continues to be debated and discussed across the country.
