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

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.

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first female prime minister, died on December 30, 2025, at the age of 79 after a long illness. Zia was a highly influential figure in Bangladeshi politics, having led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for several decades. She served multiple terms as prime minister, playing a significant role in the country's political landscape. Her death marks the end of an era for one of Bangladesh's most prominent political leaders. Zia's legacy includes her contributions to Bangladeshi democracy and her impact on the BNP.

Khaleda Zia, who recently passed away at 80, was Bangladesh's first female Prime Minister, serving from 1991-1996 and 2001-2006. Initially a "shy housewife," she entered politics after her husband, President Ziaur Rahman, was assassinated in 1981, subsequently leading his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She spearheaded the pro-democracy movement during the 1980s, enduring house arrest and organizing mass rallies. In 1991, the BNP won the post-military elections, making her Prime Minister. Although later accused of corruption and imprisoned, the charges were dropped after a 2024 uprising. Born in West Bengal in 1945, she moved to Bangladesh after the partition of India and married Ziaur Rahman at 15.

Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh's first female prime minister, died on Tuesday in Dhaka at the age of 80. As chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, she served three terms as prime minister, alternating in power for decades with Sheikh Hasina, leader of another prominent political dynasty. Their rivalry significantly shaped Bangladesh's political landscape. In her later years, Zia faced numerous court cases and periods of imprisonment or house arrest under Hasina's rule. Despite suffering from various health issues, requests to seek medical treatment abroad were denied. Following Hasina's removal from power, Zia was released from house arrest and many cases against her were dropped.

Tarique Rahman, a leading political figure from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), returned to Bangladesh on Thursday after 17 years in exile in Britain. He aims to lead his party in the upcoming parliamentary elections in February. Rahman's return follows a period of political upheaval, including the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is now in exile in India, and the outlawing of her party. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus currently heads an interim government established after student-led protests. The upcoming election is anticipated to be chaotic, marked by violence, religious intolerance, and strained relations with India. With the Awami League absent, the BNP is the largest political force.