Khaleda Zia not fit for overseas travel now: Fakhrul
"The physicians said she may require treatment abroad, but her current physical condition does not permit international travel," he said
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's physical condition is critical, and she is not in a state to be taken abroad for treatment at this moment, the party's Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said today (29 November).
"Last night, the medical board held a meeting where all physicians discussed her treatment and reached a collective opinion on how to proceed and what course of treatment should follow," he said at a press conference at the party's Gulshan office in Dhaka.
"The physicians said she may require treatment abroad, but her current physical condition does not permit international travel," Fakhrul said, adding that doctors will reconsider the matter only if her condition stabilises.
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However, he also mentioned that necessary precautions regarding air ambulance and visas for possible countries where she can be taken have been discussed.
"If needed… if she is ready to fly, we will be able to reach a decision," he said.
Fakhrul said Khaleda has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital for several days in a "serious condition".
Leading physicians in Bangladesh, as well as specialists from Johns Hopkins in the United States and London Clinic in the United Kingdom, are treating her, he added.
During the press conference, Fakhrul also requested the party leaders and members not to gather at the hospital premises.
"Many people are crowding the hospital, causing discomfort to hospital authorities and physicians and disrupting care for other patients," he said. "Through all of you [journalists], I would like to request everyone… please do not gather at the hospital."
Asked about BNP acting chairperson Tarique Rahman's return to the country, Fakhrul said there was no need for him to comment because Tarique had already posted on Facebook.
"I have nothing more to add. I cannot explain his post. He is the party chief; he has posted it himself," he said.
"Whether I see obstacles or not is immaterial. Take his post as it is. That is his statement. No further explanation is required," he added.
Earlier today, in a Facebook post, Tarique said that despite his strong desire to return to Bangladesh and be beside his critically ill mother, the decision is not entirely his to make.
"Like any child, I long to feel my mother's comforting touch during such a crisis. But unlike others, I do not have unrestricted or independent authority to decide on returning home," he said.
