Dhaka, Mar 03 (V7N) – The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court has upheld the High Court’s verdict acquitting BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia of a 7-year prison sentence in the Zia Charitable Trust corruption case.

The verdict was delivered on Monday (March 3) by a bench headed by Justice Md. Ashfaqul Islam.

Following the ruling, Khaleda Zia’s lawyers – Barrister Mahbub Uddin Khokon, Badruddoza Badal, and Aminul Islam – informed the media about the decision.

Key Observations from the Verdict:

  • The judge who initially handled the case reportedly admitted to receiving an “award.”
  • None of the 33 witnesses in the case could provide conclusive evidence against Khaleda Zia.

Earlier, the state and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) had filed an appeal challenging Khaleda Zia’s acquittal. However, today’s ruling confirms the dismissal of the corruption charges against her.

Background of the Case:

  • Khaleda Zia was sentenced to 7 years in prison in the Zia Charitable Trust corruption case.
  • On November 27, 2023, the High Court acquitted her of all charges.
  • Two other individuals convicted in the case were also acquitted:
    • Haris Chowdhury (Former Political Secretary to Khaleda Zia, now deceased)
    • Ziaul Islam Munna (Former Private Secretary to Haris Chowdhury)
    • Monirul Islam Khan (Former Private Secretary to ex-Dhaka City Mayor Sadeq Hossain Khoka)

With this ruling, Khaleda Zia remains legally free of this conviction, marking a significant legal victory for her and the BNP.

END/MSS/AJ