Political turmoil in Bangladesh leaves Lesedi's family hopeful

 

The current political crisis in Bangladesh has somehow given a bit of hope for the family of Lesedi Molapisi, a Motswana woman who has been sentenced to death for trafficking illicit drugs in that country.

The 30 year-old was arrested in 2022 at Bangladesh's International Airport in possession of 3.145 kilograms of heroin. The anti-government protests have toppled its long-serving prime minister Sheikh Hasina who has since fled the country. Huge crowds of demonstrators stormed a jail, freeing hundreds of inmates before setting the facility on fire.

There are reports that the new government may free the rest of the inmates, including Lesedi Molapisi. In an interview with The Midweek Sun, Lesedi’s father, Goitsemodimo Molapisi said if the reports are anything to go by, they give them some hope.

Molapisi does not know the date of the appeal at the court and he hopes that his child’s lawyer will communicate.

“I was told that we are lucky that our child was not killed after being found in possession of drugs as in most instances some are killed without court proceedings,” Molapisi said.

Lesedi’s father said his child is doing well despite the protests and hopes that God will rescue her and return her back home.

In May this year, President Mokgweetsi Masisi confirmed that government will assist with finances for appeal proceedings for Lesedi, adding that the government will offer counselling for her family.

Molapisi said he has faith that one day his child will be freed with the help of the Botswana government.