Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), accused leaders of the ruling Awami League on Monday of influencing the judiciary to dismiss cases filed against them.

"The cases against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, filed during the caretaker government period, have been withdrawn, yet the cases against our leader Begum Khaleda Zia remain active. How convenient!" remarked Mirza Fakhrul.

He made these remarks outside the BNP Chairperson's political office in Gulshan. Earlier in the day, he visited Evercare Hospital to inquire about Begum Khaleda Zia's ongoing medical treatment.

Mirza Fakhrul pointed out that typically, sentences are reduced in lower courts.

“However, in Madam [Khaleda Zia]'s case, we've witnessed a different scenario where the High Court's decision has extended the sentence imposed by the lower court. Why this extension?” he questioned.

The motive behind this extension is clearly political, aimed at sidelining her from political activities, he asserted.

Alamgir went on to state, "Our Madam is battling a severe illness. Despite repeated notifications to the government, no steps have been taken. The injustice she faces is severe,” he said, adding that it appears to be a deliberate effort to distance her from politics and exacerbate her health issues.

“The call for Begum Khaleda Zia's unconditional release has now become a national demand," said Mirza Fakhrul.

The BNP Secretary General expressed that the government is not taking their leader's medical needs seriously, despite their repeated requests for her to receive treatment at a specialized hospital, ideally abroad.

He emphasized their demand for her unconditional release, stating that they are capable of arranging her treatment themselves and will continue their movement until she is freed.

Mirza Fakhrul also criticized the government's claim that she is receiving adequate care, highlighting their lack of sincerity in facilitating her return to democracy.

Regarding further protests for Begum Khaleda Zia's release, the Secretary General of the BNP said, "As we have consistently stated, we advocate for peaceful demonstrations within the bounds of democracy and the law. It is incumbent upon the government to promptly facilitate the release of Leader Begum Khaleda Zia.”

Discussing the quota movement, Mirza Fakhrul said,  dismissing this movement as illogical, as stated by the government, is wrong. “We remain committed to truth and reason. The unwavering unity of the students in their logical demands continues to motivate us we will support this movement."

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