Tarique says return not entirely within his control as Khaleda critically ill
BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman said that, like any child, he longs to be near his mother in such a crisis, but added that returning to Bangladesh is not entirely within his control.
"But unlike others, the opportunity for me to make an independent decision in this regard is neither unrestricted nor solely within my control. The sensitivity of this matter also limits the scope for detailed explanation. Our family remains hopeful that once the current political realities reach the expected stage, my long and anxious wait to return to my homeland will finally come to an end," he wrote in a Facebook post this morning.
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He explained his situation in relation to returning to Bangladesh as his mother -- former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia -- remains seriously ill and in a critical condition under intensive care at a hospital in Dhaka.
Citizens from all walks of life, irrespective of political affiliation, have continued to offer earnest prayers for her recovery, he said in the post.
"The honourable chief adviser has not only prayed for her healing but also expressed a commitment to ensuring every possible support for her treatment," he wrote.
As always, medical teams at home and abroad have been providing highly professional and sincerely dedicated care, he said, adding several friendly nations have also expressed their willingness to extend all possible cooperation, including advanced medical support.
"The Zia family conveys its heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to everyone for their sincere prayers and affection for the highly respected Begum Khaleda Zia. At the same time, we earnestly request all to keep praying for her swift recovery," he added.
Khaleda was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 on the advice of her medical board after being diagnosed with infections in her heart and lungs.
She is also suffering from pneumonia and is currently receiving treatment in the hospital's Coronary Care Unit (CCU) under the supervision of both local and foreign specialists.
Khaleda, 80, has long been suffering from multiple health complications, including heart problems, liver and kidney issues, diabetes, lung problems, arthritis, and eye-related illnesses. She has a permanent pacemaker and previously underwent stenting for her heart.
Last night, medical board sources said her kidney is not functioning properly.
They said that if her condition permits, they may attempt to send her to the UK for advanced treatment; if that is not possible, Singapore is being considered.
Meanwhile, speaking at an event in Nayapaltan yesterday, Fakhrul said, "You all know that our leader Begum Khaleda Zia has fallen ill and been hospitalised. Last night, doctors said her health condition is very critical."
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