BNP senior leader Moudud Ahmed on Saturday said bargaining with the government is not needed for the release of Khaleda Zia since the street movement is the only way to have her freed from jail, reports UNB.
Speaking at a rally of lawyers, he also said the government should have dissolved parliament following its alliance leader Rashed Khan Menon's remarks about the December 30 election.
"We needn't bargain with anyone over the issue of Khaleda Zia's release. She won't get bail as the government does not want it. I personally believe it's not possible to free her through the legal process," the BNP leader said.
Moudud, a BNP standing committee member, came up with such comments a day after Khaleda Zia's relatives expressed their desire to take her abroad for treatment,
He said Khaleda has been in jail for nearly 18 months due to 'political influence'. "So, a street movement is the only way to free her. We'll be able to free Khaleda Zia and restore democracy if we can take to the streets."
The lawyers' programme was held at the Jatiya Press Club demanding the release of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia and the withdrawal of 'false' cases filed against political leaders and activists.
Moudud said a fair and credible election needs to be held in the country for the 'restoration' of democracy, good governance, the rule of law, the independence of judiciary.
He thanked Rashed Khan Menon for what he said revealing the truth even if it is late.
"This government has no moral and constitutional right to run the state as it usurped power through a civilian coup on the night of December 29. So, it should have taken steps for a fresh election dissolving the parliament after Rashed Menon's comments."
Former caretaker government adviser Barrister Mainul Hosein said Khaleda Zia has the right to get bail for her treatment.
"Had the judiciary remained independent, so many political statements and movements would not have required for her release."
He also said it is an inhuman attitude that an elderly woman and a three-time former Prime Minister is not released on bail for treatment.
Mainul urged the lawyers to get united to protect the national interests, people's basic rights and ensure the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
