Khaleda Zia’s conviction was a farce, she was tortured in jail: Law Adviser

Law adviser Asif Nazrul has described the conviction handed down to BNP chairperson and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, 80, during the ousted Awami League government as a farce, alleging that she was subjected to inhumane torture in prison. He said he personally believes that then prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her government bear responsibility for Khaleda Zia’s death.

He made the remarks on Tuesday while responding to journalists at a press conference in front of the state guest house Jamuna, held to brief the media on decisions taken at a meeting of the Advisory Council.

Asif Nazrul said Khaleda Zia had been sent to jail through a completely fabricated and politically motivated verdict. He claimed that the farcical nature of the case in which she was convicted had been proven through the appeal and review processes of the highest court.

He added that the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court repeatedly stated in its verdicts that Begum Zia had been sentenced out of political vengeance and malice. He also remarked that had she not suffered repeated torture in prison, the nation might not have lost her.

Expressing his personal opinion, Asif Nazrul said he believes fascist prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her government must be held responsible for Khaleda Zia’s death.

Referring to the interim government’s role in her medical treatment, he said everything possible had been done. Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus personally kept track of her treatment. He added that if Khaleda Zia had been fit to be sent abroad again, the government would have extended full cooperation.