An air ambulance from Qatar is set to arrive in Dhaka to take BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia to London for advanced treatment once her medical board gives the greenlight.
The BNP chief’s Adviser Enamul Haque Chowdhury said the medical board is scheduled to meet Saturday night, and its decision will determine the timing of the air ambulance’s arrival. However, they are ready now, he added.
Enamul confirmed the development to the media and said he has been in constant communication with Qatari authorities.
“As soon as the medical board announces its decision, the air ambulance will arrive in Dhaka and take Madam (Khaleda Zia) to London. All arrangements have been made by the Qatari authorities,” he added.
The medical board will also decide whether Khaleda’s condition is stable for travel abroad and whether she can be given a “No Fly Risk” certificate, he also said.
When asked whether the ambulance was coming from Germany, he replied, “Yes, the ambulance is from Germany. But it is not us, rather, the Qatar authorities are arranging this air ambulance from Germany. They are handling everything. We have no involvement here.
BNP sources said Khaleda Zia’s condition remains the same as before.
Hospital sources added that the BNP chairperson has not yet gained the capacity to travel by air, which is why her journey to London is being delayed.
Since 23 November, Khaleda Zia has been undergoing treatment at the Evercare Hospital. A medical board led by Professor Shahabuddin Talukder and comprising specialist doctors is overseeing her care.
The board also includes Dr Zubaida Rahman, wife of Tarique Rahman who is Khaleda Zia’s eldest son. She arrived in Dhaka on Friday and has since been supervising her mother-in-law’s treatment. Under her supervision, the former prime minister is expected to be taken to London for advanced treatment.
