Dhaka, Jan 08, (V7N) - After prolonged health struggles and years of uncertainty, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has finally left for London to receive advanced medical treatment.

The 79-year-old three-time former prime minister departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport late Tuesday night aboard a special air ambulance provided by the Emir of Qatar. The Qatar Royal Family’s Airbus A319, equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, carried her to The London Clinic, a leading medical center in the UK.

Departure Amidst Tight Security

Khaleda Zia’s convoy, escorted by thousands of party leaders and supporters, made its way from her Gulshan residence to the airport under heavy police security. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and senior leaders were present to see her off.

Her flight includes a one-hour stopover in Doha, and she is expected to arrive at London’s Heathrow Airport at 11:30 am (London time) on Wednesday, where authorities have arranged VIP protocol.

Medical Team and Entourage

Accompanying Khaleda Zia are six members of her medical board, including prominent physicians such as Professor Shahabuddin Talukder and Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain. The air ambulance is staffed by four Qatari doctors and paramedics. Her daughter-in-law Syeda Sharmila Rahman, BNP leaders, and personal staff are also part of the entourage.

The Airbus A319, a “flying ICU,” ensures optimal care during transit, with advanced facilities such as ventilators, defibrillators, and cardiac monitors.

Reason for Overseas Treatment

Khaleda Zia has been battling multiple critical health conditions, including compensated liver cirrhosis, heart blockages, chronic kidney disease, and post-COVID complications. Her medical team emphasized the need for multidisciplinary care unavailable locally.

Dr. Zahid Hossain stated, “The London Clinic’s specialists will determine the next course of treatment. If necessary, she may be referred to Johns Hopkins University Hospital in the USA.”

Political and Personal Context

Khaleda’s departure comes after years of political and legal battles. In August 2024, President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered her full release, enabling her to travel abroad for treatment.

This marks Khaleda’s first overseas visit in seven years and a long-awaited reunion with her son, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, who has been residing in London since 2008.

Support from BNP Leaders and Activists

Thousands of supporters gathered along the route from Gulshan-2 to the airport, waving and chanting slogans to show their unwavering support. BNP leaders in the UK have prepared to welcome their leader upon her arrival.

Future Plans

Khaleda Zia is expected to remain under intensive care at The London Clinic. Doctors will assess her condition, with considerations for further treatment options, including a potential liver transplant.

Regarding her possible Umrah pilgrimage or travel to other countries, Dr. Zahid mentioned, “These plans depend entirely on her health and the recommendations of her medical team.”

Background

Khaleda Zia has faced significant health challenges in recent years. In October 2021, she underwent the TIPS procedure to address liver complications. She has also been receiving ongoing care for diabetes, arthritis, and other ailments.

Since her release from prison in 2020 under special government orders, Khaleda Zia had been confined to her Gulshan residence for treatment. This trip signifies her second overseas medical visit, the first being in 2017 for similar purposes.

END/SMA/AJ/