The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Beleaguered BNP is now in an upbeat mood with an expectation that its detained chairperson Khaleda Zia and her eldest son Tarique Rahman would be released soon after Arafat Rahman Koko's release on parole for treatment.

Khaleda and Tarique's lawyer Adv Sanaullah Mia told UNB yesterday that he got an indication from the Home Ministry that there is a strong possibility of Tarique's release on bail within the next week.

"We do hope that Tarique will come out of jail as per the Home Ministry's hint," he said.

Adv Shimul Biswas hoped that the impediment to Tarique's treatment abroad would be removed shortly. Everything, including legal matters and medical board's recommendations, has already been cleared for Tarique's treatment abroad. "Now only the government's permission is required," he said.

About the release of Khaleda Zia, the lawyers said in the light of negotiations with the government, Begum Zia will not accept her release before Tarique who is critically ill for the damage of his spinal cord.

Meanwhile, Tarique's family sources hinted that he might be sent either to America or Germany for his medical treatment.

Khaleda's youngest son Arafat Rahman Koko was released on parole on Thursday for