National Polls
AL, BNP must hold discussion
Say eminent citizens
Several eminent citizens yesterday urged the two major political parties of the country -- Awami League and BNP -- to find a way to hold a fair parliamentary election through discussions.
The call came at a discussion before an Iftar organised by Nagorik Oikya, a recently formed citizens' organisation, at a hotel in the capital.
“Whether the (next parliamentary) election would be non-partisan is a decision for political leaders,” said the immediate past election commissioner, Muhammad Sakhawat Hussain.
“A fair election is not possible with parliament still not dissolved. We have gained such experience after holding several elections. There will be an influence on the election either by the lawmaker or his supporters,” he said.
Barrister Rafique-ul Huq said although the prime minister proposed the formation of an interim government, the problem arises on the question of who the chief of that government would be.
“There will be no solution through arguments and television talk shows. The two major parties must find a solution to it through discussions. If one truly desires for a free and fair and peaceful election, then finding the solution will not be that hard,” he said.
“The prime minister has proposed a way to hold the next election. BNP could propose a way too,” he added.
Veteran journalist ABM Musa said it is the Awami League's responsibility to remove doubts over whether the next election will be held at all.
Nagorik Oikya Convener Mahmudur Rahman Manna said, “We do not know what the situation will be between the two political parties after Eid but Nagorik Oikya will weigh movement to press home several demands.”
Language Movement veteran Ahmed Rafique, former state minister for information Prof Abu Sayeed, SM Akram Hossain and Mobasher Hossain also spoke at the discussion.
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