The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Communications Adviser Major General (Retd) Ghulam Quader yesterday vented his dissatisfaction over the unabated price hike of essentials, at a time when reports have it that business tycoons once again jacked up soybean-oil prices.

"Not only the public but also I myself am unhappy over the continued price hike of essentials," he said while talking to reporters at a press briefing at his office at the Communications Ministry.

A latest market survey showed that soybean-oil price was increased by Tk 2.50 per litre just after the government in a meeting with the traders concerned on Monday fixed the prices of soybean and palm oil.

The Adviser lamented that it's "government's misfortunate that people are unhappy with the government for price hike".

Responding to a query about people's confusion over holding election, the retired army general said confusion among the people about holding polls would be removed in December 2008 as elections must be held within this year.

He, however, said he didn't see any person confused over the question of holding election in 2008. "But if there be any uncertainty among the people, it would be removed in December."

Responding to a query about the timeframe of lifting state of emergency, the Adviser said, "Earlier I had said that emergency would not be there for even one hour when not needed anymore."

He said they all want that the state of emergency be gone as early as possible, but it is not possible to mention any timeframe.