Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's First Woman PM, Dies at 80, Ending Political Era

• Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first woman Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, passed away at 80 on December 30, 2025, at Evercare Hospital, Dhaka.
• She had been undergoing treatment for multiple critical health complications since November 23, with doctors describing her condition as "extremely critical."
• Her son Tarique Rahman returned from self-exile to visit her, marking their first reunion in 17 years, a significant moment for BNP.
• A prominent figure, she served multiple terms as PM, known for her bitter rivalry with Sheikh Hasina and her role in shaping Bangladeshi politics.
• Zia was jailed in 2018 on corruption charges, later moved to house arrest, and was acquitted by the Supreme Court in early 2025.

Why It Matters: Bangladesh's first woman PM Khaleda Zia dies at 80, marking the end of a significant political era.