Khaleda Zia's condition stable, showing slow improvement: Medical board

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's physical condition remains unchanged, with doctors reporting slight but slow improvement, a member of her medical board said this evening (9 December).

"Her health has not deteriorated further. This stability is a relief for us. Madam is receiving the highest level of treatment at Evercare Hospital," the doctor told The Business Standard.

"Madam is improving gradually, though not to the degree doctors would ideally expect. Her age remains a major factor limiting the scope and speed of treatment. At this age, pursuing multiple treatment procedures simultaneously carries high risk," he said.

The doctor added, "Her recent chest infection caused significant discomfort and has taken a toll on her overall health. Recovering from the chest infection alone has required considerable strength from her."

He also confirmed that the medical board has no immediate plan to take the former prime minister abroad for treatment. "She is not experiencing any new deterioration. That is the most positive aspect for us."

Medical team vetoes sending Khaleda abroad until health more stable

The doctor emphasised that Khaleda Zia is receiving world-class care at Evercare. "Contrary to assumptions, immediate tests and timely reports are often difficult abroad. Those processes take time."

He also informed that in addition to the country's top medical professionals, specialists from the United Kingdom, United States, and China are part of the medical board overseeing her treatment at the hospital.

Meanwhile, the air ambulance arranged to transfer the ailing BNP chairperson to London will not arrive in Dhaka today.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) had earlier cleared the aircraft to land at 8:20am today and depart at around 9pm the same day.

The development comes after the operator requested cancellation of its previously approved landing schedule at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).