Bangladesh’s former prime minister and long-time opposition figure, Khaleda Zia, has died at the age of 80, her party has announced.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) confirmed her death on Tuesday, describing her as a central figure in the country’s democratic journey and one of the most influential politicians in its post-independence history.

Khaleda Zia led Bangladesh as prime minister on two occasions and remained a commanding presence in national politics for decades. Her passing comes at a politically sensitive moment, with sections of the opposition hopeful she could still influence the country’s direction ahead of elections expected next year.

In a statement, the BNP said she devoted her life to democratic governance and political pluralism, prompting an outpouring of tributes from party supporters and allies across Bangladesh.

Zia emerged onto the political scene in the early 1990s, following the end of prolonged military rule, and went on to become one of South Asia’s most prominent female political leaders.

Her career was defined by a bitter and enduring rivalry with Sheikh Hasina, a contest that dominated Bangladesh’s political landscape for more than 30 years.

Although failing health forced her to retreat from active politics in recent years, Khaleda Zia continued to command loyalty within the opposition.

Many supporters regarded her as a rallying point against the governing authorities and a symbol of resistance to entrenched political power.

Her death is widely seen as marking the close of a significant chapter in Bangladesh’s political history — one characterised by fierce electoral battles, street mobilisation and the outsized influence of dominant political personalities.

Details of funeral arrangements and official memorial activities are expected to be released in the coming days.