Bangladesh News

Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed has called an emergency meeting with advisers today to discuss and review the situation arisen out of the BNP’s ultimatum over its participation in the next parlia-mentary election, sources said.

Fakhruddin also talked to a few advisers about the issue over the telephone last night.

“He is aware of the latest situation and want to discuss it with the panel of advisers negotiating with political parties,” the government source added.

Meanwhile, Awami League (AL)-led 14-party alliance last night said any delay in holding December 18 national election is inexcusable while the caretaker government and Election Commission did not make any comment immediately on BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s statement.

When contacted, Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) M Shakhawat Hossain declined to say anything on the matter.

“I have just heard about the ultimatum, but I can’t make any comment right now,” Foreign Adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury told The Daily Star last night.

“The December 18 election must not be delayed even by a day and it is the stance of our party. The polls must held on schedule,” AL Presidium member Matia Chowdhury told The Daily Star in an immediate reaction.

Workers Party President Rashed Khan Menon said, “We also want withdrawal of the state of emergency. But the election cannot be delayed on any excuse and under any circumstances,” Menon added.

“We want participation of all parties in the election. We think it will be good for all if the government can reach a consensus through discussion with all major political parties and then hold the election,” said Jatiya Party acting chairman Barrister Anisul Islam Mahmud.