BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia made her first public appearance since returning from London by visiting her younger brother Shamim Iskander’s residence in Gulshan Saturday evening. This marks her first outing since arriving in Dhaka on May 6 after a four-month medical treatment in the UK.
Khaleda Zia had been advised complete rest at her Gulshan residence, Firoza, by her medical board following her return. Her visit to her brother’s home signifies a positive step in her recovery.
Earlier in the day, her daughters-in-law, Dr. Zubaida Rahman and Syeda Sharmila Rahman, visited the grave of Arafat Rahman Koko, Khaleda Zia’s younger son, at Banani Graveyard. They offered prayers and recited from the Holy Quran in memory of the late sports organiser, who passed away in 2015.
Dr. Zubaida Rahman, wife of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, returned to Bangladesh after 17 years to accompany her mother-in-law during her treatment. Syeda Sharmila Rahman, widow of Arafat Rahman Koko, also accompanied them.
Khaleda Zia’s return and subsequent public appearance have been met with enthusiasm by BNP supporters, who view her presence as a revitalising force for the party.