Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia is set to return to Dhaka from London following a course of medical treatment, with preparations underway for her transport via a special air ambulance.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain confirmed the development while speaking to journalists on 29 April, stating that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating the process.
He added that the BNP had submitted a formal request for Khaleda Zia’s repatriation using a medical aircraft.
According to ministry sources, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir wrote to the interim government’s foreign affairs adviser last week, seeking assistance in arranging a Qatari air ambulance to bring the former premier back to Bangladesh.
In the letter, the BNP noted that although Khaleda Zia’s condition is stable, she is not out of danger. She is reportedly keen to return to Dhaka during the final week of April.
Her medical team has advised that, given her fragile health, travel by specially equipped air ambulance is the safest option.
The BNP chief is currently receiving treatment at her son Tarique Rahman’s residence in London, where she is undergoing a comprehensive medical assessment.
Khaleda Zia has been suffering from multiple chronic ailments, including liver cirrhosis, kidney complications, heart issues, diabetes, and arthritis.
