Khaleda Zia freed

Former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia of Bangladesh has been released from her prison sentence, which was imposed for corruption, following a decision made by President Mohammed Shahabuddin. The release was facilitated after a meeting with military leaders, political party heads, civil society representatives, and student activists, coinciding with the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid widespread protests. Khaleda Zia, who had been sentenced to 17 years in prison, has spent significant time in a hospital due to chronic health issues. The decision to free her was labeled as 'unanimous' and occurred in the context of transitioning to an interim government. Khaleda Zia previously led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and became the first female prime minister in Bangladesh's history. Her release marks a significant political shift following Hasina's ousting and the military's increased influence in governance.