Khaleda set to return home on air ambulance from Qatar Emir, not regular Biman flight: BNP
The partymen, alongside supporters, made preparations to welcome Khaleda Zia, who will be accompanied by her two daughters-in-law, Zubaida Rahman and Sharmila Rahman
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is set to return to the country on Monday (5 May) not on a regular Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, but on a special air ambulance sent by the Emir of Qatar.
Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir told a press conference this evening at the party chairperson's office in Gulshan, "We are hoping that on 5 May, Khaleda Zia will return to the country on a special airplane, possibly the same one she travelled on before — Emir of Qatar's royal ambulance. We cannot confirm the exact time yet, as it will depend on various factors. If we can confirm it by tonight, we will inform everyone."
On Monday (5 May), she will depart from London on the special flight bound for Bangladesh. The next day (6 May), she is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, according to the BNP media cell.
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Khaleda Zia travelled to London on 8 January in a special air ambulance sent by the Emir of Qatar.
Regarding Khaleda Zia's physical condition, Fakhrul said, "She is feeling much better than before. That's why she has decided to return to the country now."
Earlier, the BNP told the media that she would return to the country on a regular Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight. At 9:00am, she will reach the Sylhet Osmani International Airport, then return to Dhaka.
The partymen, alongside supporters, made preparations to welcome Khaleda Zia, who will be accompanied by her two daughters-in-law, Zubaida Rahman and Sharmila Rahman.
BNP's 'welcome home' plans
Speaking about the preparations, Fakhrul said, "It is our moral duty to give her a proper welcome. Not just the BNP, but people across the country are ready to welcome her. We have held a joint meeting on this. We made arrangements so that the people can welcome their leader in a disciplined manner."
Mirza Fakhrul said party leaders and activists will stand on both sides of the road from the airport to her Gulshan residence "Firoza". "With the party flag in one hand and flowers in the other, they will greet her."
Fakhrul also called on the public to use the Elevated Expressway route after she arrives. That is, they should position themselves on the expressway from the airport to Kakoli, avoiding the roads below. "I believe the public will support us and welcome their leader."
According to party sources, the main responsibility for the reception will lie with the BNP's Dhaka Metropolitan North and South units. Additionally, there are plans to involve leaders and activists from affiliated organisations such as the Jubo Dal, Chatra Dal, Swechasebak Dal and Mohila Dal.
