Dhaka, August 6 — BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia has been released by an executive order, a decision that was met with celebration within the party. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir greeted her with flowers during a meeting on Tuesday night, congratulating her on her release.

Earlier in the day, BongoBhavan issued a press release announcing Khaleda Zia's release. The former Prime Minister had been imprisoned since February 8, 2018, following convictions in two corruption cases that led to a total sentence of 17 years. She had served over two years in jail before being placed under house arrest on March 25, 2020, following a government decision to suspend her sentence. This house arrest, initially for six months, was repeatedly extended under the previous administration.

The release comes amid a period of significant political upheaval in Bangladesh. On Monday, amid a massive student movement, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and subsequently left for India. In the aftermath, efforts to establish an interim government began swiftly. On Tuesday afternoon, President Md. Sahabuddin convened a meeting at Bangabhaban with leaders of various political parties, civil society representatives, and the heads of the three military branches.

During this meeting, it was decided that Khaleda Zia would be released immediately. The discussion also included plans to release all individuals detained during the anti-discrimination student movement and other recent incidents.

The release of Khaleda Zia, along with other detainees, marks a significant development in the rapidly evolving political landscape of Bangladesh. The interim government's formation is anticipated to steer the country through this transitional phase.