BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday said that although he longs to be near his critically ill mother, returning to Bangladesh is not entirely within his control due to the current political realities.
In a Facebook post, he wrote: "In such a moment of crisis, I too strongly long for my mother's affectionate touch, just like any child. But unlike others, the opportunity for me to make an independent decision in this regard is neither unrestricted nor solely within my control. The sensitivity of this matter also limits the scope for detailed explanation."
He said his family remains hopeful that once the political situation reaches the "expected stage," his long and anxious wait to return to his homeland will finally end.
Tarique explained his predicament as his mother former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia remains seriously ill and under intensive care at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. Citizens from all walks of life, regardless of political affiliation, have continued to offer prayers for her recovery, he noted.
He added that the Chief Adviser has not only prayed for her healing but also pledged to ensure all possible support for her treatment.
Medical teams from Bangladesh and abroad have been providing highly professional and dedicated care, he said.
Several friendly nations have also expressed willingness to offer advanced medical assistance if required.
"On behalf of the Zia family, we express our heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to everyone for their sincere prayers and affection for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia. At the same time, we earnestly request all to keep praying for her swift recovery," Tarique wrote.
Khaleda Zia was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 on the advice of her medical board after being diagnosed with infections in her heart and lungs. She is also suffering from pneumonia and is currently receiving treatment in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) under the supervision of both local and foreign specialists.
The 80-year-old former prime minister has long been suffering from multiple health complications, including heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, lung ailments, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. She has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting for her heart.
Medical board sources said last night that her kidney is not functioning properly. If her condition improves enough to travel, efforts may be made to take her to London for advanced treatment; if that is not possible, Singapore is being considered.
Meanwhile, speaking at an event in Naya Paltan yesterday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said: "You all know that our leader Begum Khaleda Zia has fallen ill and been hospitalised. Last night, doctors said her health condition is very critical."
