Khaleda urges nation to remain vigilant

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has called upon the nation to remain vigilant of the country's situation and continue movement for the restoration of democracy.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir conveyed her message to reporters yesterday after meeting Khaleda Zia at the Old Dhaka Central Jail.

The BNP leader said although Khaleda Zia is physically unwell, her morale remains strong.

“Her condition has not improved since I last saw her. I think she is enduring serious pain,” Fakhrul said.

Fakhrul said he met the BNP chief at the guestroom of the building she is confined in and exchanged greetings with her.

Fakhrul said Khaleda had been waiting for food from home on Eid day. However, she had some food served by the jail authorities in the evening, at the request of the IG of prison.

The BNP secretary general went inside the jail at around 4:00pm and came out at 5:00pm.

After getting confirmation from the jail authorities, Fakhrul spoke with the acting chair of BNP, Tarique Rahman, who has been staying in London since late 2008, about the visit.

He also talked with members of BNP's standing committee.

Following the instruction of Tarique Rahman and suggestions from the standing committee members, it was decided that Fakhrul alone will meet Khaleda. 

Party insiders said Fakhrul was a bit emotional as he exchanged greetings with Khaleda after a long gap.

Asked whether they discussed any organisational or political issues, Fakhrul replied in the negative.

Prior to this, Fakhrul visited Khaleda in jail on April 6.

On February 8, Khaleda landed in jail after a special court sentenced her to five years' rigorous imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust graft case.