Bangladesh News

Commerce Adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman said yesterday the government has taken steps to bring political arch rivals Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia to sit across the table to help pull the country out of the prevailing political crisis.

“The two leaders, Hasina and Khaleda, have a major role in politics and we hope they will contribute more for qualitative changes in politics in the future,” the adviser said while talking to reporters.

He was answering questions on the country’s latest political situation at the communications ministry yesterday. Communications Adviser Ghulam Quader and Law Adviser AF Hassan Ariff were also present at the time.

Khaleda Zia has been released on bail, and with this her participation in the elections is ensured, Zillur said.

“We want to take the nation forward and have begun a new chapter,” Zillur said, referring to Khaleda agreeing to participate in the elections. “The government hopes the two leaders will not only respond to this move but also take initiatives on their own to this end,” he added.

The chiefs of the two major political parties of the country have not been seen together, or known to have spoken, in over a decade now.

“Our aim is to hold a meaningful election with the participation of all, make qualitative changes in politics, ensure post-election stability and economic prosperity,” the adviser said.

“Political leaders in the country should be responsible and help find solution to problems,” he said.

Zillur added that the government would help the political parties hold party councils and relax the emergency rules in this regard if needed.

Released through an executive order on July 11, Sheikh Hasina is currently in the United States for treatment and expected to return home in the first week of October. Khaleda Zia was released from jail yesterday following bail in all four graft cases against her.