Bangladesh’s big question: Will Khaleda Zia’s son build on her legacy?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 7 min read 100% complete by By Moudud Ahmmed SujanJanuary 1, 2026 at 04:44 AM

AI Summary

long article 7 min

Khaleda Zia, three-time prime minister and leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), died in Dhaka on Tuesday, marking the end of an era in Bangladeshi politics. Her funeral drew large crowds, highlighting her significant legacy. With national elections scheduled for February 12, her death creates a leadership void for the BNP. The party now enters a "post-Khaleda phase," with her son, Tarique Rahman, assuming full authority as acting chairperson. The focus shifts to whether Rahman can consolidate the party's base and lead it effectively in a changed political environment following the banning of the Awami League's political activities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Awami League 30% Muhammad Yunus 30% Riyadul Islam 40% Evercare Hospital 50% Dhaka ×370% Bangladesh ×480% Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) ×690% Tarique Rahman ×490% Khaleda Zia ×7100%

Keywords

khaleda zia 100% bangladesh nationalist party 90% tarique rahman 80% political legacy 70% political transition 60% national elections 60% party leadership 50% bangladesh politics 50% political upheaval 40%