Shun AL, BNP for uplift

"They are fighting for power, not for people's wellbeing. Vote for Jatiya Party (JP) if you want peace and development", Ershad told a public meeting held at Amtali Primary School ground.

The meeting was organised to campaign for JP candidate Lutfar Rahman Chowdhury, a candidate in the Gaibandha-4 by-election to be held on May 9.

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Democracy will be shattered if the present confrontational politics continues, the former president said.

There should be a change in the leadership for consolidation of democracy and development of the country. Jatiya Party is the only alternative, he said and urged people to vote for JP for development of the area.

Ershad also critisised the BNP-Jamaat government for rise of Islamist militants in the country, inadequate supply of fuel, power and fartiliser to farmers and price hike of essentials.

Condition of farmers in the country deteriorated during the rule of both Awami League and BNP because they are engaged in changing their fate, not of people, Ershad alleged.

Corruption has become endemic, crimes increased and militancy has tarnished the image of the country abroad under their rule, he said. People were happier during the nine-year rule of jatiya Party, he claimed.

Ershad told to meeting that Mohimaganj Sugar mill in Gobindaganj will be reopened if Jatiya Party is voted to power in the next election.

Presided over by Lutfar Rahman Chowdhury, the meeting was addressed by, among others, Kazi Zafar Ahmed and Karimuddin Bharsha MP.