Dhaka, Nov. 29 -- President Mohammed Shahabuddin has urged the nation to pray for the swift recovery of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who is undergoing treatment in hospital.

In a statement issued on Saturday, he expressed deep concern after receiving reports of her worsening condition.

He said, "At this crucial juncture in our democratic journey, I pray for the speedy recovery of former prime minister [Khaleda]. I appeal to Almighty Allah for her health and also request the people of the country to pray for her."

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said on Friday that Khaleda's condition was now "extremely critical".

The 79-year-old has for years been suffering from arthritis and diabetes, along with complications involv...