The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has filed an appeal with the Appellate Division challenging a High Court (HC) verdict that dismissed a corruption case involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina over the establishment of barge-mounted power plants.

The case was listed for a hearing before the appellate bench, led by Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, on Sunday (May 18). 

ACC lawyer Asif Hasan confirmed that the court has set July 15 for a full-bench hearing on the appeal.

The original corruption case was filed in 2007, alleging abuse of power in the construction of barge-mounted power plants in Shikalbaha, Haripur, and Khulna during 1996-1997. Several individuals, including Sheikh Hasina, former Power Secretary Toufique Elahi Chowdhury, and other officials, were named in the case.

In 2010, the High Court canceled the case following a petition from Sheikh Hasina. The ACC later sought permission to appeal the ruling in March 2025, requesting leniency for the 5,452-day delay in filing.

The Chamber Court initially heard the matter on March 17 before referring it to the full Appellate Division for a final hearing on May 18. The appeal remains pending.

MSK/SMS