Bangladeshs First Female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia Passes Away at Age 79

December 30, 2025 • Al Jazeera

Bangladeshs First Female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia Passes Away at Age 79

Bangladesh’s First Female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia Passes Away at 79

Khaleda Zia, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has passed away at the age of 79 due to a prolonged illness. She was the country’s first female head of government and held significant influence in Bangladeshi politics for an extended period.

Zia served as the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for many years, shaping her party’s policies and direction. Her tenure marked a notable milestone in Bangladesh’s history, as she became the country’s first female prime minister.

Born on September 15, 1940, Zia passed away at an advanced age due to complications from a prolonged illness. The news of her passing has been confirmed by official sources, and tributes are expected to pour in from across the nation.

Zia’s legacy as a prominent figure in Bangladeshi politics will be remembered for years to come. Her contributions to the country’s development and governance have had a lasting impact on its history. The BNP, which she led for many years, continues to play an active role in Bangladesh’s politics.

Details of Zia’s funeral arrangements and any planned tributes are yet to be announced. As news of her passing spreads, the nation is expected to come together to pay respects to this influential figure in Bangladeshi history.

Source: Al Jazeera