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Download PDF Awami League (AL) Presidium Member Matia Chowdhury has said categorically the state of emergency would definitely impede holding the parliamentary election in a free, fair and credible manner as there could be attempts to manipulate the polls results.
Demanding complete withdrawal of the state of emergency before the national polls scheduled for December 18, the AL policymaker said question has now arisen as to whether people could exercise freely their franchise to elect candidates of their choice, and whether polls results would properly reflect the votes cast, with emergency rules in force.
In an exclusive interview with The Daily Star, she said allegation of any political party about manipulating poll results will have national and international credence. She warned that any manipulated polls results would not be acceptable to the people.
Matia, who was agriculture minister during AL rule from 1996 to 2001, said they want to take part in the election in an environment free from fear, apprehension and criminal activities. “But, (state of) emergency must go fully to ensure such an environment. ”
The AL leader said her party is prepared to take part in the December polls, and would call its grassroots level leaders to Dhaka soon to collect names of parliamentary election contenders. They would not give any nomination in violation of electoral laws, or nominate those convicted by lower courts.
The former minister said they would contest the polls under the banner of a grand alliance to be formed with secular democratic forces after AL chief Sheikh Hasina returns home this month.
The elections to upazila parishads should be held at least one month after the national polls, she stressed.
Matia pledged that if voted to power, they would continue the current anti-corruption drive and make the parliament effective.
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