Staff Correspondent

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s health has significantly improved and is now in a stable condition, her personal physician Prof AZM Zahid Hossain has said.

Speaking to reporters in London on Tuesday, he also said doctors from The London Clinic have visited Khaleda at the residence of her eldest son Tarique Rahman.

"Madam (Khaleda) is receiving treatment at the residence of her eldest son and BNP's Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman," said Dr Zahid.

He said Khaleda’s daughters-in-law, Dr Zubaida Rahman and Syeda Shamila Rahman, and her three granddaughters – Barrister Zaima Rahman (daughter of Tarique Rahman), Zahiya Rahman, and Zafiya Rahman (daughters of the late Arafat Rahman) – are taking care of her.

"She is mentally much better than before. Doctors have visited her at home, and her physical condition is currently stable," he said.

On January 8, Khaleda Zia was airlifted to London for advanced treatment.

Prof Zahid, who travelled with six other Bangladeshi doctors on the same air ambulance, said she has been under the care of The London Clinic’s doctors since her arrival.

Currently, she is being treated at her son Tarique Rahman's residence under the supervision of Professor Patrick Kennedy, Professor Jennifer Cross, and Dr Barrett.

"Her treatment is continuously supervised by doctors at home, and necessary tests are being conducted periodically," Dr Zahid added.

On behalf of the Zia family, he also requested the people of Bangladesh and expatriates to pray for the BNP Chairperson’s swift recovery.

In response to a question about when Khaleda Zia will return to Bangladesh, Professor Zahid said, "Madam will return to Bangladesh when the doctors here advise her, or when they believe she is fit to travel. Inshallah, she will return when the time comes."

Khaleda Zia was admitted to The London Clinic on January 8 and was discharged on January 25. Since then, she has been receiving treatment at her son’s home under the supervision of doctors from the clinic.

The 79-year-old former Prime Minister has been suffering from a range of health issues, including liver cirrhosis, kidney problems, heart issues, diabetes, and arthritis for a long period.