The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

BNP secretary general Khandaker Delwar Hossain Sunday said that despite dissention by a few leaders BNP remained united under the leadership of party chairperson Khaleda Zia.

Talking to reporters at his NAM apartment after recovering from nearly two months' illness, he said: "BNP is not split up despite different opinions and different paths being followed by some leaders."

Delwar criticized the way the Election Commission was carrying out its activities, saying people has doubts whether free and fair elections would be held by the present Commission.

He also termed illegal and unconstitutional the Commission's letter inviting Saifur-Hafiz group for its dialogue on electoral reforms.

However, the High Court, upon a writ petition, recently stayed the Commission's letter addressed to Major (retd) Hafizuddin Ahmed.

The BNP secretary general also brought allegations against police for being biased towards Saifur-Hafiz faction and allowed them to attend the BNP central office.

Replying to a question, he said: "We don't want to go to our office under police protection. We want to attend our office under the protection of our leaders and workers."

Dewar again claimed himself as the legitimate secretary general of BNP, saying he would continue to hold the office as long Khaleda Zia wished.

He urged the government to expedite relief and rehabilitation works in the cyclone-hit coastal districts.

BNP joint secretary general Nazrul Islam Khan and several former MPs of BNP were present.