In a poignant statement released today, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairman Tarique Rahman expressed his profound desire to be with his critically ill mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, but indicated that his return to Bangladesh is being blocked by prevailing “political reality.”
Khaleda Zia remains in Intensive Care at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, suffering from a range of critical health issues including pulmonary complications. The BNP leader’s condition has prompted widespread concern and prayers from all quarters of society, including from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, who has offered all necessary assistance for her medical treatment.
‘Single Decision’ Not Enough for Repatriation
While the first half of Tarique Rahman’s statement focused on thanking the nation and international partners for their support and prayers for Khaleda Zia’s recovery, the final paragraph addressed the persistent public question regarding his absence during this sensitive time.
He stated that as a son, he possesses an “intense yearning for the affectionate touch of my mother during this crisis,” but clarified that realizing this wish is not solely within his control.
“However, like everyone else, the opportunity for me to make a single decision in implementing this is neither open nor under my sole control,” he wrote. He further explained that the “sensitive issue” also has “limited scope for detailed description.”
Tarique Rahman, who has been residing in London for several years, expressed hope that his “long, anxious wait for repatriation will end as soon as this situation of political reality reaches the desired level.”
The Political Context
Tarique Rahman, along with his wife Dr. Zubaida Rahman, is known to be in constant contact with the medical team treating Khaleda Zia and is a member of the medical board overseeing her care.
His comments underscore the complex legal and political challenges preventing his return. The statement suggests that despite his personal desire to be by his mother’s side during this grave illness, the decision rests on a political solution or legal clarity that remains elusive.
The public, which has been praying for Khaleda Zia’s health and closely following updates on her critical condition, continues to question the circumstances that keep her son from visiting her, even in the face of a family medical emergency.
