Khaleda Zia makes first public appearance in six years

International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Thursday, November 21st, 2024

RKI Website

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia made her first public appearance in six years on Thursday, following her release from house arrest in August. Zia, 79, appeared at a reception marking Armed Forces Day, alongside Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who heads the interim government tasked with restoring democracy.

The event marked a significant moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, as Zia has been a key figure in the country’s political rivalry with current Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Zia, who was convicted in 2018 on corruption charges, has faced years of declining health, suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and liver cirrhosis. Despite being released from house arrest months ago, Zia has kept a low profile, addressing only a political rally through a video message.

At the reception, Yunus welcomed Zia, calling her presence an honor. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which Zia leads, also attended the event in force. Zia’s appearance brought an emotional response from party secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who was seen crying as he saw Zia.

Zia’s release came after the ousting of Hasina following a student-led uprising. Despite being denied medical treatment abroad during her house arrest, reports suggest Zia may seek treatment outside Bangladesh soon. Her reappearance raises new political dynamics as the country prepares for future challenges.