‘Govt trying to kill Khaleda in jail without treatment’

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir yesterday alleged that the government is trying to kill the party chief Khaleda Zia in jail.

“The government is prolonging Khaleda Zia’s stay in jail by creating obstacles to her release using various ploys. They are trying to interfere in the trial and pushing her towards death in jail without treatment,” he said.

Speaking at a press conference at BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office, Fakhrul said the government is depriving the BNP chief of bail, although she deserves it in all the cases against her.

“We think the government is showing an inhumane attitude towards Khaleda Zia by depriving her of legal rights. It’s also tantamount to violating the constitution,” the BNP leader added.

Fakhrul also alleged that the authorities are depriving Khaleda of her right to treatment. He said the party requests the apex court to grant bail to Khaleda and uphold her rights.

The BNP leader also urged the authorities to take steps for Khaleda’s release so that she can receive proper treatment as per her choice.

Otherwise, he warned, the government will be held responsible if anything untoward happens to the BNP chief, for lack of treatment.

Khaleda Zia has been receiving treatment at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) since April 1.

Fakhrul alleged that her health has deteriorated at BSMMU.

“Her left shoulder froze earlier, now her right shoulder also froze. She’s suffering from acute pain,” he claimed.

The BNP leader also said that Khaleda is unable to move both her hands and get up from bed without help.

He said the party chairperson is suffering from high blood sugar as her diabetes remains uncontrollable even after using insulin.

Under the circumstances, the chairperson needs proper treatment at any other specialised hospital rather than BSMMU, Fakhrul said.

He alleged that government is showing an extremely vindictive attitude towards her by not allowing her to meet relatives even for once in a week.

Replying to a question, Fakhrul said, “We joined the parliament in the interest of democracy and our party.”

“Khaleda Zia’s release is not conditional since she legitimately deserves to be freed on bail,” added the BNP senior leader.