The order to suspend the effectiveness of BNP chief Khaleda Zia’s sentences is ready and her release from prison is “just a matter of time”, says Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan.
“The GO (government order) is ready and signed by the secretary. The IG prisons will complete the remaining formalities,” he told the media at his office on Wednesday (Mar 25).
She will have to receive treatment at her Dhaka home and will not be allowed to travel abroad, Khan said explaining the key conditions for her freedom. Her sentences will remain suspended for six months.
“Khaleda Zia has been in prison for two years and two months after being convicted in two cases," he said.
He added that the home ministry had already sent the appeal for her release by her younger brother Shamim Iskander to the law ministry.
"When it was sent to us after vetting, we asked for the prime minister’s instructions. By that time, Khaleda Zia’s younger brother, sister-in-law and brother-in-law personally appealed for her release,” Khan said.
Khaleda, 74, who has twice been prime minister, has been in jail since she was convicted in a graft case in February 2018. Her health has been deteriorating for months and she was moved to a hospital in April last year.
The government decided to release Khaleda in response to appeals from her family, Law Minister Anisul Huq said on Tuesday.
The BNP says the cases were fabricated and aimed at keeping her away from politics.