Referring to the temporary release of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia from jail, Law Minister Anisul Huq said that she will not be able to contest in the upcoming parliamentary polls as she is a convicted criminal.
“She has been released from jail temporarily for medical treatment. Apart from that, her current physical condition is not suitable for politics,” the law minister said while speaking at an event in Brahmanbaria on Saturday.
Mentioning that Khaleda Zia is named in two corruption cases, the law minister noted: "While one case has already been tried, the other one is still under trial. As per Article 66 of the constitution, she is disqualified from participating in any election due to being sentenced.”
The law minister also mentioned that in view of Khaleda Zia's brother's plea, she was released on two conditions.
"The conditions of her release were that she must receive medical treatment at her home in Dhaka and cannot travel outside the country. However, no conditions were imposed regarding her political activities,” he added.
Huq mentioned that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina granted her release on humanitarian grounds.
The law Minister also said that he agreed with the leaders of the ruling party regarding Khaleda Zia's participation in the polls.
“My colleagues are making statements based on the current situation. It is reasonable to assume that someone who is released from prison for medical reasons should not engage in politics. Their remarks are logical,” he said.
The law minister also stated that journalists have created confusion about whether or not BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia will be able to continue her political activities.
