Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh’s first female prime minister and a central figure in the country’s political history, passed away on Tuesday December 30th 2025 at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness.
Zia had been battling multiple complex health conditions, including liver and kidney complications, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and infection-related problems.
Born on August 15th 1946, in Dinajpur district to Taiyaba and Iskandar Majumdar, Zia entered politics after the assassination of her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, in 1981.
Initially unfamiliar with political life, she quickly emerged as a national leader, assuming the BNP’s chairpersonship and leading the party for over four decades. She played a pivotal role in restoring democracy after years of military rule, navigating complex political landscapes, and shaping Bangladesh’s parliamentary system.
Zia became prime minister three times and oversaw constitutional reforms, including the transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system.
Her political career witnessed remarkable achievements and notable challenges. Despite facing imprisonment on corruption charges in 2007, she remained a resilient figure in national politics. She never lost an election, winning multiple constituencies in 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2008, reflecting her enduring popularity.
Her political rivalry with Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina defined the nation’s modern political history, with both leaders shaping Bangladesh’s governance and democratic evolution.
Zia’s death prompted a three-day state mourning, a one-day national holiday, and widespread tributes from world leaders.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and announced that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar would attend her funeral.
She will be laid to rest with full state honours beside her husband at Zia Udyan in Dhaka.
Remembered as the “Mother of Democracy,” Khaleda Zia devoted her life to public service, guided Bangladesh through turbulent political periods, and left an enduring legacy. Her leadership, resilience, and contributions to restoring and strengthening democratic governance in Bangladesh will be remembered as a defining chapter in the nation’s history.
