Dhaka: In view of the critical illness of BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, the party today postponed its previously declared nationwide programme titled 'Bijoyer Mashe Bijoy Mashal Road Show' marking the victory of the country against Pakistan in 1971.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement at a press conference at BNP's central office in Nayapaltan. He stated, "The programme that we had announced for the month of December, from December 1 to December 16, has been postponed considering Begum Zia's illness."
Khaleda Zia was admitted to the Evercare Hospital in the city on November 23 after developing breathing difficulties due to a lung infection and subsequently developed pneumonia. She also has pre-existing chronic conditions, including kidney, liver, arthritis, and diabetes issues, complicating her treatment as addressing one ailment often adversely affects another.
Prior to this, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the BNP's month-long programmes for the Month of Victory at a press conference at the BNP Chairperson's office in Gulshan. He had said that as part of the programmes, the BNP would hold a special nationwide event, the 'Bijoyer Mashe Bijoy Mashal Road Show' from December 1st to December 16th.
Providing the latest update on Khaleda Zia's health, Rizvi mentioned, "As far as I've heard today, Khaleda Zia's physical condition remains unchanged. And her medical board has not yet recommended her to go abroad." Expressing hope for her quick recovery, Rizvi added, "We believe she will recover and be cured quickly. This is the expectation of millions of people in the country."
Rizvi also commented on BNP Acting Chairman Tareque Rahman's concern for his mother, noting his constant communication with attending doctors and his efforts to monitor her condition. "The responsibility he is fulfilling towards his mother is immense," he said. Regarding Tareque Rahman's return to the country, Rizvi remarked, "He will return to the country when the appropriate time comes, based on advice concerning the country's political situation and in consultation with other party leaders."