The BNP was founded in 1978 by Ziaur Rahman as a democratic party in Bangladesh. It has been led by Khaleda Zia since 1983, with her son Tarique Rahman currently serving as Senior Vice-Chairperson. The BNP has ruled Bangladesh for a total of 14 years over three terms since its founding, winning elections in 1978-1982, 1991-1996, and 2001-2006. Begum Khaleda Zia was the first woman Prime Minister of Bangladesh after the BNP won the 1991 election.