Khaleda Zia, the ailing former prime minister of Bangladesh and a towering figure in the nation's politics, left for London on Tuesday for medical treatment. The three-time premier and head of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) departed late at night on an air ambulance sent by Qatar’s emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Zia, 79, has been suffering from a series of health issues, including liver cirrhosis, cardiac disease, and kidney problems, according to her physician. Her journey marks a significant moment in Bangladesh's political landscape, as the nation grapples with uncertainty ahead of elections expected in late 2024 or early 2026.

Zia's Health and Political Journey

Once a towering political rival of Sheikh Hasina, another former prime minister, Zia's departure underscores the strained political environment in Bangladesh. Her journey to London follows years of legal battles, political struggles, and deteriorating health.

Zia was sentenced to 17 years in prison under Hasina's rule on corruption charges dating back to her tenure as prime minister from 2001 to 2006. Her supporters have long maintained that these charges were politically motivated, a claim consistently denied by Hasina's administration. Under the current interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, Zia was acquitted of one corruption case in November, with an appeal ongoing in another.

Despite her bail release and medical treatment in Bangladesh, Zia was previously barred from traveling abroad under Hasina’s administration. Her eventual departure to London signifies a moment of relief for her supporters, many of whom see her as a symbol of resilience against political adversaries.

A Nation in Political Transition

Bangladesh's political scene is in flux, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus leading an interim government that is preparing the country for upcoming elections. Zia’s departure comes as Tarique Rahman, her eldest son and the acting chairman of the BNP, prepares to lead the party into the electoral battle. Rahman, who has been in exile in London since 2007, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the BNP’s future strategy.

The political landscape in Bangladesh has long been dominated by the dynastic rivalry between the families of Zia and Hasina, creating a polarized political environment. The current transitional period, led by Yunus, aims to stabilize the country and ensure a smooth path to elections.

A Sentimental Farewell

Hundreds of Zia’s supporters gathered outside her residence in Dhaka’s Gulshan area to bid her farewell, creating a poignant scene that demonstrated the deep loyalty she commands. Her motorcade took over three hours to navigate a 10-kilometer stretch to the airport as thousands of supporters thronged the streets to catch a final glimpse of their leader.

Television stations broadcast her journey live, capturing the emotional outpouring of support and the chaotic traffic disruptions caused by the massive crowds.

Her journey to London was further facilitated by an air ambulance from Doha, provided by Qatar’s emir, reflecting the international dimension of her health crisis.

The Road Ahead

As Zia begins her medical treatment in London, Bangladesh remains at a crossroads. With elections on the horizon and a nation divided by political loyalties, the coming months will be crucial in determining the country’s trajectory.

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