prison

Bibi, only recently released from prison herself, is often described as private and apolitical.

The 50-year-old is being held after being extradited from Italy, over an outstanding two-year prison sentence, according to the AFP news agency.

Silva is now serving a life sentence in prison.

Prospective candidates for Parliament can stand for election despite having a criminal record, unless they have served a prison term or been detained for 12 months or more.

It would be illegal to coerce someone into declaring they want to end their life, with a possible 14-year prison sentence.