Why return of Zia’s son may influence Bangladesh’s election
The death of ex-prime minister Khaleda Zia may have boosted voter support for her son Tarique Rahman, who is contesting in the election
Rahman, who was acting chairman of the BNP for several years, succeeded Zia in the role formally following his mother’s death. He is contesting in two constituencies in the election, according to Bangladeshi media reports.
In a fractured political landscape marked by domestic unrest, new political players and strained relations with India, analysts said the election might be a watershed moment in bolstering Bangladesh’s attempt to restore political stability.
Zia, 80, was rushed to a hospital in late November due to her heart and lung ailments, and her condition subsequently deteriorated. The government has declared three days of state mourning, with her funeral held on Wednesday.
Hours before her death, workers from the BNP submitted her nomination papers to contest at the coming election despite her poor health, reflecting her clout in the country’s political scene as the party prepares for a leadership transition.