Khaleda remains in ICU, overseas treatment still an option
BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia continues to receive intensive care treatment at Evercare Hospital in the capital, her personal physician and party standing committee member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain confirmed on Wednesday night.
Speaking to reporters outside the hospital, Dr Zahid said the former prime minister is being given the “highest possible standard of treatment” under constant guidance from both local and foreign specialists.
“We received advice from the Medical Board as early as last Friday that taking her abroad would be beneficial,” Dr Zahid disclosed. “However, at that time the medical ambulance, air ambulance facilities and overall health support system were not suitable for such a long journey. The board remains in regular contact with specialists in Bangladesh and overseas, and every recommendation is being implemented here with the aim of ensuring she receives world-class care wherever it is available.”
He added that doctors are “very optimistic” about her progress and that she is responding to treatment in the ICU in the same way she has in previous admissions.
“Treatment is continuing exactly as before, and she is responding,” he said, while cautioning that some details cannot be shared publicly for medical reasons.
Dr Zahid expressed gratitude for the widespread concern shown by ordinary citizens, BNP leaders and activists, and even senior figures in the current interim government.
“From the Secretary General and members of the Standing Committee to people across the country – everyone is deeply worried and praying for her recovery. We are combining the mercy of Allah, the prayers of the nation, and the very best efforts of doctors. Her family and all concerned are doing everything humanly possible,” he said.
Appealing for calm, he urged the public to ignore rumours and refrain from exaggeration. “It is natural for people to want updates about a leader of her stature, but please do not spread confusion or unverified information. Keep praying – that is the greatest support right now. May Allah grant her full recovery.”
When pressed on whether her condition has improved or worsened over the past five days, Dr Zahid replied: “As her physician, there are limits to what I can disclose. What I can say is that we remain hopeful and are providing the highest level of care.”
The 79-year-old BNP chairperson, who suffers from multiple chronic conditions including liver cirrhosis, arthritis and diabetes, has been admitted to the coronary care unit several times this year.
Senior party leaders have repeatedly stated that advanced treatment abroad may become necessary if her condition demands it.