Bangladesh Opposition Continues Urgent Plea for Khaleda Zia’s Medical Treatment Abroad
Alamgir also emphasized the impact of U.S. visa restrictions on Bangladeshis and called for elections under a caretaker government, stating, "The people of our country are sanctioning you [the government]."
Dhaka: In a fervent appeal, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir reiterated the critical condition of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and demanded immediate medical treatment abroad within the next 48 hours. Speaking at a rally held in Nayapaltan, Alamgir quoted doctors’ assessments that her deteriorating health cannot be adequately addressed within the country, and a delay could be fatal.
Alamgir also emphasized the impact of U.S. visa restrictions on Bangladeshis and called for elections under a caretaker government, stating, “The people of our country are sanctioning you [the government].”
During the conference, BNP’s Standing Committee member Gayeshwar Chandra Roy questioned the justice system, highlighting that Awami League leaders sentenced by the court have received medical treatment abroad while Khaleda Zia remains incarcerated.
Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, another BNP Standing Committee member, emphasized Khaleda Zia’s unwavering stance and gave the government a 48-hour ultimatum to arrange her treatment abroad, warning of consequences if not complied with.
Dr. Abdul Moin Khan stated that the government’s fear of Khaleda Zia, who advocates for democracy, is evident, with the Awami League aiming to consolidate power by silencing her.
Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, joint secretary general of the BNP, raised questions about the overseas assets allegedly owned by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s son, challenging their source of origin.
Earlier in the day, BNP supporters gathered in Nayapaltan to join the rally, creating an enthusiastic atmosphere filled with slogans and banners. Party leader Abdus Salam presided over the gathering, and senior party officials, including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, addressed the crowd.
Aminul Haque, general secretary of Dhaka North BNP, and Liton Mahmud, a member of Dhaka South BNP, moderated the rally, which saw an increased presence of law enforcement personnel to ensure security. The BNP’s call for Khaleda Zia’s release and urgent medical treatment abroad continues to resonate strongly in Bangladesh.
