Bangladesh’s political arena is buzzing with election fervor, but former leader Sheikh Hasina is drawing a line against exploiting the death of Khaleda Zia. In a pointed critique, she called out opponents for a ‘worrying tendency’ to twist facts into accusations during moments of national mourning.
The BNP icon and former three-term PM breathed her last on December 30, 2025, following extended health battles at 80. State honors marked her burial, but recriminations followed swiftly. BNP’s Nazrul Islam Khan, speaking at a gathering with top officials, alleged Zia’s 2018 imprisonment under Hasina – in what they term a fabricated case – denied her vital care, leading to irreversible deterioration.
From New Delhi, Hasina shared her grief in an exclusive interview. ‘Khaleda Zia’s passing diminishes us all. Opposing politics aside, her dedication to public service was exemplary. I extend sympathies to her loved ones.’ Firmly rejecting blame, she stressed Bangladesh needs unity and respect now, not division.
Hasina’s allies, including ex-minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, provided context on the care extended. Under her watch, Zia accessed elite hospitals, underwent critical surgeries by international experts summoned specifically for her. Housed comfortably rather than incarcerated harshly, her survival owed much to these interventions. Chowdhury noted post-Hasina decline, underscoring the humanitarian edge to their rivalry.
As polls loom, this spat reveals persistent tensions. Hasina’s call to cease politicization challenges leaders to rise above partisanship, fostering a narrative of shared legacy for Bangladesh’s two foremost women politicians.