Jamaat protests 

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar has alleged that government interference in the judiciary prevented the bail of Akhtaruzzaman.

He made the allegation at a press briefing at Jamaat’s central office in Moghbazar on Sunday, protesting Akhtaruzzaman’s arrest and demanding his immediate release.

Golam Porwar alleged that Akhtaruzzaman was arrested for speaking out against mismanagement at the airport and claimed that the arrest was politically motivated. He said the airport faced shortages of trolleys and delays in luggage delivery, prompting Akhtaruzzaman to question the authorities.

He further alleged that the case was filed against Akhtaruzzaman following his criticism of the airport authorities. “His bail was denied in a bailable case. There is political interference behind the decision,” Golam Porwar claimed.

He also criticised the authorities for bringing Akhtaruzzaman to court in handcuffs, a helmet and a jacket. He said Akhtaruzzaman, a former lawmaker and freedom fighter, was not given division facilities in jail despite his age and health condition.

Golam Porwar claimed that documents establishing Akhtaruzzaman’s status as a former MP and freedom fighter had been submitted to the court. He demanded that the relevant order for division facilities be sent to the prison immediately.

The Jamaat leader also accused BNP activists of creating disorder at the court premises and attacking lawyers representing Akhtaruzzaman, as well as his relatives and party supporters. He alleged that such incidents reflected an authoritarian approach.

He further claimed that expatriate Bangladeshis had expressed anger over Akhtaruzzaman’s arrest and warned of a possible remittance shutdown if he was not released.
Golam Porwar called for Akhtaruzzaman’s immediate and unconditional release.