Khaleda 'positive on city polls'

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia will consider taking part in the city corporation elections if the government creates a congenial atmosphere, said Prof Emajuddin Ahmed, a former vice-chancellor of the Dhaka University.

Emajuddin was talking to journalists after a nine-member team of pro-BNP professionals headed by him met the BNP chief at her Gulshan office last night.

Emerging from the hour-long meeting, the former VC said the BNP-led 20-party alliance may change the pattern of the ongoing movement if it decides to join the elections.  

If the authorities create an environment for free and fair elections, BNP will take its decision at the highest forum of the party and will also consult with the 20-party alliance, he added.

However, a BNP standing committee member earlier in the day said the party is still undecided on participating in the upcoming DCC election. 

"We are still discussing the issue. A final decision has not yet been taken," said BNP standing committee member Lt Gen (retd) Mahbubur Rahman while visiting Salahuddin Ahmed's residence in Dhaka yesterday.

There are two views at the grassroots regarding participation in the city polls, he said.