Bangladesh’s Supreme Court Acquits Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia
DHAKA, January 15 (Bernama-dpa) – In a major blow to the incumbent government, Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has acquitted former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in a corruption case, lifting a previous conviction and 10-year prison sentence.
The Acquittal
A five-judge panel led by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed overturned the verdicts delivered by the trial court in the case and the High Court in 2018, according to defence lawyer Zaynul Abedin. All other defendants in the case, including Zia’s son and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) acting chairperson Tareque Rahman, were also acquitted.
Background
Zia, 79, is a three-time former prime minister who mostly served during the 1990s and has led the BNP since 1981, following the assassination of her husband, former president and party founder Ziaur Rahman. The former prime minister was imprisoned between February 2018 and March 2020 after being convicted of misappropriating funds meant for orphans. Initially sentenced to five years, a higher court later extended her prison term to 10 years.
The BNP always maintained that the charges were politically motivated, accusing the then-government of Sheikh Hasina of targeting Zia for political reasons.
Ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s Government
Following Hasina’s ouster during a violent uprising in August last year, the BNP took politically sensitive cases to the Supreme Court, seeking justice under the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus. Hasina fled to neighbouring India during the unrest.
Potential to Contest Elections
Zia’s legal team expressed optimism that the ruling could clear the way for her to contest in the next parliamentary elections, expected to be held in late 2025 or early 2026 under the interim government. Earlier this month, Zia travelled to London for medical treatment, marking her first international trip in years.
Implications
The acquittal may have significant implications for Bangladesh’s political landscape. Zia, a dominant figure in Bangladesh politics, could return to active politics, potentially upsetting the balance of power. However, it may also pave the way for more political stability under the interim administration.
FAQs
What was Khaleda Zia convicted of?
Khaleda Zia was convicted of misappropriating funds meant for orphans.
Who is the chief justice of Bangladesh’s Supreme Court?
Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed leads the five-judge panel that acquitted Khaleda Zia.
When will the next parliamentary elections be held?
The next parliamentary elections are expected to be held in late 2025 or early 2026.
Can Khaleda Zia contest the elections now?
Following the acquittal, Zia’s legal team expressed optimism that she could clear the way for her to contest the elections, but this may depend on her health and the political landscape.
Conclusion
The acquittal of Khaleda Zia is a major development in Bangladesh’s political scene, with implications for the future of the country’s politics. As the incumbent government and opposition parties navigate this new landscape, it remains to be seen what the future holds for Bangladesh’s political landscape.