Time not ripe to lift emergency fully: CA

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Chief Adviser (CA) Fakhruddin Ahmed yesterday said the time is not yet ripe for fully lifting the state of emergency, as some reasons still exist “justifying its enforcement”.

“We want to proceed towards complete withdrawal of the state of emergency by relaxing it in phases. Our experience will tell what needs to be done,” he told reporters at the local circuit house in response to queries about outcome of the national dialogue and current political issues.

Asked about detained former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s release, the CA expressed his government’s intention about her release for treatment at home and abroad.

“The process is on. Everything is on track–release is possible. Release can take place by combining the legal and humanitarian aspects,” he noted.

The head of the caretaker government made it clear that the state of emergency was declared for special reasons and some of the reasons still exist.

The CA, however, said the emergency has been eased on the eve of the city corporation and municipality elections to allow electioneering. In this context, he said, “We will evaluate the experience of the people and the candidates about the local elections in this situation.”

His latest statement apparently rules out demands from political parties for immediate lifting of the emergency so they could politically prepare for the coming elections.

Asked about BNP participation in the political dialogue, the CA said, “We want participation of all parties in the dialogue and we want to go to elections along with all.”

Asked if the caretaker government wants to neutralise party activities by keeping the emergency in force, the CA denied, saying: “We do not want to neutralise political activities and we don’t have such intention as the caretaker government is not rival to any party.”

He said political parties are necessary for flourishing democracy, but political parties should act taking into consideration people’s aspirations.

The chief adviser, whose interim regime is carrying out sweeping reforms, reiterated his government’s avowed stand to hold a free and fair general election with concerted efforts by all so a welfare-oriented and pro-reform government can be established.

“A consensus could be reached through the current dialogue to work out ways of establishing such a government,” he said and expressed his conviction that anti-hartal politics and effective parliament could be possible through such political consensus for a fresh start.

Asked about some “corrupt” candidates in the local-body elections, he said law is the yardstick to determine who is corrupt and ineligible for election. He hoped political parties will field honest and competent candidates in the elections.

He said the Election Commission will be able to ensure an appropriate environment for free and fair polls through its election code of conduct.

To another question, the CA said the Election Commission has already planned to hold upazila election in phases before and after the general election.

About the mode of future government, balance of power and amendment to the constitution, he said a constitution commission could be formed so it can make recommendations on these subjects and keep those for the future elected government and parliament for consideration.

About the Truth Commission, he said the formation of the commission is at the final stage and it will start functioning within weeks.

Foreign Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury and Press Secretary to CA Syed Fahim Munaim were present.

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