Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's First Female Prime Minister, Passes Away at 80

Tue Dec 30 2025 07:19:32 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Khaleda Zia, a significant political figure in Bangladesh and the first female prime minister, has passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness, as announced by her party.

Khaleda Zia, who led Bangladesh as its first female prime minister starting in 1991, has died at the age of 80 after suffering from health complications. Her political career was marked by both significant achievements and controversies, including a long-standing rivalry with Sheikh Hasina. Zia's death was announced by her party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), following a period of critical health concerns. She had previously returned to power in 2001 and faced corruption allegations leading to her imprisonment in 2018.

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first female prime minister, has died at the age of 80 after suffering from a prolonged illness.

Our favourite leader is no longer with us. She left us at 6am this morning, Zia's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) announced on Facebook.

Physicians had indicated that Zia's condition was extremely critical. Despite being on life support, it was challenging to provide adequate treatments due to her advanced age and overall health.

Zia made history in 1991 as the first woman to lead Bangladesh following a triumphant election win by the BNP, marking significant progress in the nation's political landscape.

She regained the premiership in 2001 but stepped down in late 2006 ahead of elections. Her political journey was marred by corruption allegations and fierce rivalry with Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina, who had recently left office amidst political turmoil.

The late Khaleda Zia was the widow of former president Ziaur Rahman and had a notable political and personal legacy despite her recent challenges, including a controversial five-year imprisonment starting in 2018 for corruption.