The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

The High Court yesterday turned down a plea for stay on the ongoing proceedings of the barge-mounted power-plant case against detained former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Following her writ petition, the court, however, issued a rule upon the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the government to explain within eight days why the continuation of the proceedings of the barge-mounted power- plant case against Hasina after the expiry of the stipulated timeframe "should not be declared illegal".

A division bench comprising Justice M Imman Ali and Justice M Emdadul Haque passed the order and fixed May 20 for the rule hearing.

The trial is being held in a special court set up at the high-security parliament complex.

Hasina, also Awami League President, filed the writ petition Sunday challenging the validity of the continuation of the case proceedings, as the stipulated timeframe for completion of the trial had expired in the meantime.

Barrister Rafique-ul Huq appeared for Hasina while Additional Attorney-General Salah Uddin Ahmed for the government.