The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia yesterday demanded the government release all political prisoners before Eid.

"I demand their freedom to establish justice and create an election-friendly environment," the former premier said in a statement signed by her aide Maruf Kamal Khan.

She said she favoured the trial of any suspect under regular laws of the land, no matter whatever the charges.

"Anybody can be punished if he is convicted but punishing anyone before conviction cannot be supported," she said in the statement.

The former prime minister thanked all who supported the struggle of her, her two sons' and scores of political leaders under the state of emergency. "I thank (them all)," she said.

Khaleda rendered her sympathy to the people who have suffered physically, mentally and financially to protect their basic human rights in recent days.

She said she believed restoration of full democratic process was the only answer to "our collective sacrifice".