BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia has developed a chest infection, while her heart and lungs have also been affected, said Professor Dr FM Siddiqui, a member of her medical board.

Speaking to reporters on Sunday night, Dr Siddiqui said Khaleda Zia will remain under close observation by the medical board for the next 12 hours.

“She has a chest infection, and both her heart and lungs are involved,” he said while giving an update on her latest health condition.

BNP Standing Committee member and her personal physician Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain said it is still uncertain how long she will need to stay in hospital. “The decision will depend on the assessment of her condition,” he added.

Khaleda Zia was taken to Evercare Hospital from her Gulshan residence, Firoza, around 7:30pm on Sunday. She was later admitted for several essential medical tests.

Another personal physician, Dr Al Mamun, said the admission was necessary to conduct some critical examinations.

Khaleda Zia has long been suffering from multiple health complications, including arthritis, diabetes, kidney issues, lung problems and eye conditions.

She travelled to London on 7 January for advanced treatment and returned to Dhaka on 6 May after 117 days. Since her return, she has been taken to Evercare Hospital regularly for routine health assessments.