BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia. -File Photo

DHAKA, Jan 13, 2025 (BSS) - Physical condition of ailing BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, who is undergoing treatment at London Clinic, UK, has improved further as she is facing less difficulties in walking without help of anyone.

She was admitted to the prestigious hospital in London for advanced medical treatment under the supervision of liver specialist Prof John Patrick Kennedy, BNP Standing Committee member and Begum Zia's personal physician Professor Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain briefed journalists.

Dr. Muhammad Enamul Haque Chowdhury, the BNP chairperson's personal physician, was also present.

“Our Madam walked alone inside the clinic today. She also enquired about Bangladesh,” he said.

A Bangladeshi member of Begum Zia’s medical board said all members of the board comprising physicians of the London Clinic is likely to sit for a discussion on her health issues tomorrow. 

However, Dr. Zahid said Begum Zia's routine health check-up is going on while there have been some changes in her treatment pattern based on reports of some latest medical examinations.

She is now being given physiotherapy. Expert physicians including nephrologists and cardiologist have seen her.

“After a few more days of treatment; we hope we can say something more specific about her physical condition,” he said.

Dr. Zahid also said that Tarique Rahman, 'Dr. Zubaida Rahman, late Arafat Rahman's wife Syeda Sharmila Rahman, Khaleda Zia's granddaughters including Barrister Zaima Rahman are always looking after her at the hospital. 

Her eldest son as well as BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman brings food for his mother to the hospital every day from home by himself. 

“As a result, Madam is doing much better now. She is mentally cheerful,” Dr Zahid said.
He said some special tests may be conducted today.

Earlier, on Saturday, Jatiyatabadi Mahila Dal President Afroza Abbas, who is now in the UK, visited Begum Zia.

“Madam is now with all of her family members that is why she is much better than before. We hope she will recover and return to the country soon.

She will come back to the country and take charge of the country and the people,” she said.

Her husband, BNP standing committee member Mirza Abbas, was with her at the time.