Khaleda can join polls even if convicted: Moudud
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia will be able to participate in the next general election even if she is convicted in any case, Moudud Ahmed, a standing committee member of the party, said today.
“There will be no one-sided election in the country. Our preparation for the next general election and anti-government movement will continue simultaneously,” he said.
He was addressing a programme organised by Labour Party, a political partner of the BNP-led 20-party alliance commemorating the Pilkhana tragedy at the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity this afternoon.
BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia is under trial in connection with Zia orphanage and Zia charitable graft cases. The trial of the both cases is at the stage of placing for self-defense statement.
Under this circumstance, BNP senior leaders are worried whether Khaleda Zia will take part in the next election if she is convicted in the cases.
Moudud, who is also a noted lawyer, said, “It is not correct that Khaleda Zia will be disqualified in taking part in the next general election. Rather, her (Khaleda) popularity will increase if she is convicted.”
“We will lodge an appeal if Khaleda Zia is convicted in the false case. Then, we will be able to ensure bail for her (inshallah) and she will be able to join the election,” Moudud said.
About level playing field ahead of the next general election, Moudud said Election Commission or “election-time supportive national government” is not a matter but democratic atmosphere in the country will have to be ensured.
“Equal rights will have to be ensured for all from now and all the false cases lodged against BNP men will also have to be withdrawn. Only then, we will understand that there is a possibility of holding the next general election in free, fair and impartial manner,” he said.
He said his party wants to resolve the prevailing political crisis in a peaceful manner through talks.
“Otherwise, we will have no alternative but to go for movement,” he sounded a note of caution.