Govt trying to expedite process of Khaleda's release: CA

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CHITTAGONG, Aug 13 (UNB): Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed Wednesday said the government is trying to expedite the process of releasing BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia on bail 'as quickly as possible.'

'The matter is under consideration of the government. We think it will be finalised at a certain point of time,' he told a press briefing after the Council of Advisers meeting at Chittagong Circuit House.

The head of the caretaker government made the remarks when a correspondent sought to know the actual position of the government about ex-premier Khaleda's release in the wake of contradictory statements by Advisers Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman and Maj Gen (retd) MA Matin.

Dr Fakhruddin noted that when another ex-premier, Awami League president Sheikh Hasina, was released on parole, the government had issued a notification stating that Khaleda Zia's case would also be considered.

'We are trying to accelerate the process as speedily as possible,' he said.

Asked about the raging debate over general election under the state of emergency, the Chief Adviser said it was possible to hold free and fair elections to local bodies on August 4 due to the easing of the emergency.

'This experience, if necessary, will be applicable in future