RIYADH: Eight Bangladeshi workers sentenced to death by a lower Saudi court for allegedly killing an Egyptian worker face an uncertain future while they wait for a verdict by a higher court in Riyadh.

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Hasina Wajed is scheduled to visit the Kingdom later this month. It is, however, unknown whether she would discuss the case with the Saudi authorities.

“The Bangladeshi government has submitted necessary papers, seeking royal pardons for the accused workers,” said a Bangladeshi diplomat. Asked whether the subject of royal clemency would be discussed during the visit, the diplomat refused to comment.

“An appeal for royal pardon for at least these eight workers has already been made and it is up to the Saudi government to refuse or grant the pardon,” he said.

According to the Bangladeshi press, during her visit Hasina will perform Umrah and meet Saudi officials to discuss bilateral issues and may sign an agreement seeking to enhance trade and investment between the two countries.

Hasina will also discuss the possibility of sending more Bangladeshi workers to the Kingdom and economic assistance to create jobs and alleviate poverty in her country.

In all, 14 Bangladeshis were indicted in the murder of the Egyptian national some three years ago.

According to reports, the Egyptian national was killed on April 28, 2007, after the Bangladeshis challenged him while trying to steal electric wires from their camp.

While questioning the youth, Egyptian workers from a nearby factory swooped on the Bangladeshis prompting them to retaliate. The Egyptian man was killed in the ensuing clash.

Eight of the 14 suspects were sentenced to death. Three others were given prison terms, while another three remain at large.

The Bangladeshi Embassy is also trying to resolve the case by paying blood money to the victim’s family.