The court will decide on Sept 20 whether to continue the Zia Charitable Trust graft trial in absence of BNP chief Khaleda Zia or not. Dhaka Special Judge-5 Md Akhtaruzzaman set the date on Thursday after the incarcerated BNP chief refused, yet again, to appear before the makeshift court setup inside the old jailhouse.

Court questioned the BNP chief’s counsels to explain reasons behind her unwillingness to attend the hearing for the second time. The lawyers, in reply, sought permission to meet Khaleda before explaining to the court. Prosecutors in the graft case pleaded with the court to move ahead with the trial proceedings in Khaleda’s absence if she refuses to attend.

The court set Sept 20 for further hearing and decision on the matter before adjourning for the day. Previously, on Wednesday, Khaleda refused to attend the court and the judge wanted a legal explanation from Khaleda’s counsels. On Thursday, Judge Akhtaruzzaman asked the defendant’s reason to be absent from hearing two days in a row.

The prosecutors replied saying: “the jail authority informed that she will not attend.”

Khaleda’s counsels raised their objection at this point claiming that their client’s message was not being presented properly before the court.

They told the court: “Khaleda Zia could not appear before the court because she is physically ill. But, the jail authorities have presented her statements in such a manner that made it sound as if she is neglecting the court. But, that’s not the case.”

BNP chief’s lawyers also said that they want to meet her to know the reason behind her unwillingness and inform the court.

A two-time premier, Khaleda Zia is serving a 5-year-sentence after being convicted of embezzling foreign donations made to the Zia Orphanage Trust.