Khaleda passes time praying, reading

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, sent to old Dhaka central jail just a month back after conviction in a graft case, is spending most of her time there reading newspapers and books and saying prayers, said party's senior leaders who visited her on Wednesday, reports UNB.

Talking to the news agency, two party standing committee members said Khaleda, during their meeting, highly appreciated them for carrying out peaceful programmes and keeping the party united in her absence.

The two leaders said they talked about various issues, mainly the party's organisational ones, during the meeting. But there was no discussion on the upcoming national election as the BNP chief is very confident that she will be released from jail through a legal battle much ahead of the election.

She, however, is a little bit worried that the government may try to prolong her stay in jail.

They said the BNP chief repeatedly asked them to keep the party rank and file in an upbeat mood and mobilise more public support through various peaceful programmes, rallies in divisional cities and visiting different districts.

The BNP leaders said Khaleda told them to let people know that her health condition is fine as she has an apprehension that the government may circulate false information that she is sick with an ulterior motive.

"We first got emotional seeing our leader in the jail, but she was very cool and normal," said a BNP standing committee member wishing anonymity.

He said Khaleda did not say anything about her difficulties and sufferings inside the jail.

"She said she's fine and taking food regularly."

At one stage of the conversation, the BNP leader said, "Madam said she knew everything about BNP's peaceful movement as she passes her time reading newspapers and books."

Khaleda also says prayers and recites from verses from the holy Quran. "Madam doesn't watch TV as there's no cable connection," he added.

Another standing committee member, preferring not to be named, said Khaleda is happy as the party leaders and activists are demonstrating their unity and their participation in the peaceful programme is increasing gradually.

"Madam has directed us to talk to inactive leaders and remain alert so that no one can create any rift in the party."