Khaleda won’t be alive if jail term continues: BNP chairperson’s sister

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s sister Selima Islam today expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating health of the former prime minister, saying that they would fail to take her home alive if the present situation continues.

“Her condition is very critical. She is vomiting. She is suffering from fever and pain. Her left arm has become crooked. We won’t be able to take her home alive if her stay extends,” Selima told reporters after meeting Khaleda at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) this afternoon.

Selima said the BSMMU was not a suitable place for treating Khaleda as the BNP chairperson required better treatment at a specialised hospital.

“We are thinking of submitting a special appeal seeking her [Khaleda’s] release for better treatment,” Selima said.

“Her sugar level is now 15. She has been surviving here for nearly a year. Her health is not improving, but rather deteriorating gradually. How long will it continue?” Selima asked.

When asked whether Khaleda said anything about the upcoming Dhaka city corporation elections, Selima did not reply and instead urged all to pray for her recovery.

Khaleda has been in jail since being convicted in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on February 8, 2018.

The BNP chief has been receiving treatment at the BSMMU since April 1 last year.