The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Member of the BNP Advisory Council BNP Brig Gen (retd) ASM Hannan Shah yesterday said his party would take decision about the next general elections after discussing with party Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.

He also said most of the BNP leaders were in favour of taking part in the dialogue with the Election Commission (EC) on electoral reforms. The issue, however, will be decided after getting the EC's invitation for the talks, he added.

In reply to question while talking to journalists at his DOHS residence, Hannan Shah said the BNP would not take part in any meaningless elections.

"BNP had boycotted polls in the past. We shall not take part in any meaningless election," he said.

He, however, hastened to add saying, "Taking part in the election or not will depend on the steps of the present Government. The final decision will be taken in consultation with the Chairperson and within the party forum."

He said this when his attention was drawn to the statement of Awami League (AL) Acting President Zillur Rahman, who said they would not go to election without party Chief and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is detained in prison on corruption charges.

Hannan Shah said Awami League is an old and big party. Their declared policy on taking part in the election was found controversial and self-contradictory in the past.

"BNP means Begum Khaleda Zia," he said, adding, "Our Chairperson was elected by the party Council. Khaleda Zia will lead the party as chairperson until the next councils held."

Begum Zia, the immediate-past Prime Minister, is imprisoned on corruption charges along with both of her sons.

Asked if action will be taken against the reformists in the party, Hannan Shah said, "They will all return and work with us. That is what we are expecting with patience."