Petitions may be moved next week: Lawyer

The two pending petitions filed with the High Court and Supreme Court in November last year, challenging BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's convictions and sentences in two corruption cases, maybe moved before the courts next week, Advocate Zainul Abedin, a lawyer for Khaleda, said yesterday.

The Election Commission did not allow her to run in the December 30 national polls, following her convictions and 17 years' jail sentences in the cases.

On November 18 last year, Khaleda filed an appeal with the HC, challenging the trial court verdict in Zia Charitable Trust graft case that sentenced her to seven years' imprisonment, said Advocate Zainul.

In the appeal she also sought acquittal from all the charges.

“The November 18 petition is still pending with the HC. We will place it before the bench, and pray for its hearing. If the bench orders a hearing, we will move another petition, seeking bail of Khaleda in the case,” the lawyer added.

ZIA ORPHANGE TRUST GRAFT CASE

The BNP chief's participation in the parliamentary polls became uncertain after a special court in February last year sentenced her to five years in prison in Zia Orphanage Trust graft case.

She filed an appeal with the HC, challenging the lower court's verdict. But the HC on October 30 rejected her appeal and enhanced her punishment to 10 years in jail.

On November 19, the former prime minister filed an appeal with the apex court seeking a stay on the October 30 HC verdict.

In the petition, she also sought bail in the case.

“We will also move the petition, which is pending with the apex court and pray for Khaleda's bail in the case,” Advocate Zainul added.