By NNN-BSS,
Dhaka, Bangladesh : Commerce Adviser Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman said here the government is considering total lifting of state of emergency once the election environment is fully visible in the country.
The Commerce Adviser said this at a press briefing at the Chief Adviser’s Office here on Saturday while clarifying government’s position regarding the 7-point demand of the BNP.
Communications Adviser Maj Gen (Rtd) Ghulam Quader, LGRD Adviser Anwarul Iqbal and Law Adviser A F Hassan Ariff were present at the briefing.
Dr Hossain Zillur said, during discussions with the political parties including BNP and Awami League, the government also agreed that state of emergency cannot prolong for an indefinite period.
He said, keeping this in mind the government relaxed the emergency in phases and on 3rd of this month restrictions have been lifted on all kinds of political activities.
The commerce adviser said, a further relaxation of the emergency is under consideration following the completion of the submission of nomination papers.
Dr Zillur said, Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed in his address to the nation on May 12 announced that the national election will be held on December this year while he specifically declared December 18 as the polls date in his another address to the nation on September 20.
The adviser said, this announcement of polling date was welcomed by both the countrymen as well as the international community.
He said, the whole nation is now fully prepared to hold a meaningful election with the participation of all political parties for a democratic transition in the country.
Regarding Upazila election the adviser said, the nation and all political parties have now reached to a consensus about strengthening elected local government system.
He said, as per the demand of the political parties the upazila election will be held on December 28, 10 days after the upcoming general polls.
The government initially decided to hold upazila election before the general election but a change has been made following discussions with the political parties, he pointed out.
Referring to the creation of level playing field for all political parties, Dr Zillur said, massive changes have been made at the field level administration as requested by the Election Commission (EC).
The Adviser unequivocally said that the government is pledge bound to quell with iron hand any attempt which may unfairly influence in the election process.
Besides, he said, necessary amendments have also been made in the Representation of Peoples Order (RPO).
He said that the government is closely observing the development regarding neutral holding of election and is ready to take necessary action on immediate basis if any specific complains raised by the Election Commission in this regard.
Dr Hossain Zillur in his briefing said, despite global adverse food and economic situation, Bangladesh has made tolerable progress with concerted efforts of all.
He expressed the hope that the next elected government will be able to take over power in this tolerable situation for leading the nation to a better future.