Khaleda Zia's suspended sentence extended again

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia

The suspended sentence of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Khaleda Zia has been extended by six months, as confirmed by Law Minister Anisul Haque. Despite ongoing health concerns, there seems to be no provision for her to seek treatment abroad, emphasizing the limitations imposed by the law.

Details of the Extension

Speaking at the secretariat on Wednesday (March 20), Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anisul Haque clarified that the application under Section 401 of the Code of Criminal Procedure has been disposed of, leaving no further avenue for action except extension. Accordingly, he has recommended an extension by sending the file to the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Khaleda Zia's release has been extended eight times by executive orders, citing humanitarian reasons. However, these extensions have not provided any leeway for her to seek medical treatment abroad.

Background of Khaleda Zia's Incarceration

Khaleda Zia was incarcerated on February 8, 2017, following a five-year sentence handed down by a special court in Dhaka in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. Subsequently, on October 30, 2021, the High Court upheld the sentence, doubling it to 10 years after dismissing her appeal.

In addition to the Zia Orphanage Trust case, Khaleda Zia was also found guilty in the Zia Charitable Trust corruption case on October 29, 2018, by another special court in Dhaka. She received a seven-year rigorous imprisonment sentence in this case.

Concerns Over Medical Treatment

Despite mounting concerns over Khaleda Zia's health, exacerbated by her prolonged incarceration, the legal framework currently in place provides no provision for her to seek treatment abroad. Minister Anisul Haque emphasized that any actions must be conducted within the bounds of the law, which currently does not permit her to travel abroad for medical purposes.

The extension of Khaleda Zia's suspended sentence and the lack of provisions for medical treatment abroad underscore the complexities surrounding her legal situation. As she continues to remain incarcerated, questions persist about the adequacy of her medical care and the adherence to legal protocols governing her confinement.