Khaleda Zia, a prominent political figure in Bangladesh and the leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), passed away on December 30, 2025, right ahead of the February 2026 elections. Born on August 15, 1945, Khaleda Zia has served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh thrice โ from 1991 to 1996, briefly in 1996, and from 2001 to 2006. Her political career has been marked by fierce rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, leader of the Awami League, creating a deeply polarized political environment in Bangladesh.
In recent years, Khaleda Zia faced significant legal challenges. She was convicted in multiple corruption cases in 2018 and served prison sentences. Her imprisonment has been a contentious issue, with her supporters alleging that the charges were politically motivated to weaken the BNP and consolidate the ruling Awami League's power. She was acquitted in most of the cases after the fall of the government
The political dynamics in Bangladesh shifted dramatically when Sheikh Hasina fled the country on August 5, 2024, amidst widespread protests and civil unrest. Subsequently, Zia was released from prison shortly after Hasina's departure.
Her son Tarique Rahman, returned to Bangladesh after a 17-year exile on December 26, 2025. He is will succeed Zia as the BNP chairman after her death.
Tarique Rahman, who is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia, won the two seats โ Dhaka 17 and Bogra 6 โ which he contested. Rahman is the frontrunner for the PMโs post.
"In respect of the nationโs mourning following the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, todayโs BPL T20 matches have been cancelled. Revised fixtures will be announced in due course," the BCB said in a statement.
Three-time Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who died on December 26, 2025, shared deep roots with India but maintained a complex, often tense relationship shaped by history, politics and regional diplomacy.
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