The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Dr Col (retd) Oli Ahmed yesterday asked the caretaker government to hold the general election within October as he said polls in November-December would create serious problem for students and teachers’ activities in the country.

Worried over the price hike, the gallantry award-holding freedom fighter also urged the government to control the spiraling prices of essentials, including rice, to assuage limitless sufferings of poor people.

“A silent famine is prevailing in the county with 99 percent people hit by the shooting price of rice,” he said, apparently echoing the prognosis of RRC chairman Dr Akbar Ali Khan.

Colonel Oli made the observations while addressing the LDP executive committee meeting here this afternoon.

The LDP president rang the alarm bell saying serious social violence could erupt in the country due to the skyrocketing price of essentials.

“Severe instability and panic are already seen among the university students and teachers, layers and businessmen,” he said, as reports have it that many people in different areas go half fed.

Oli Ahmed said the trial of the corrupt and terrorists would have to be finished within June, otherwise these matters could delay the election process. “Declare the date of election within 60 days from July,” he asked the government.

Emphasizing that there is no alternative to election, he also said the government should, as early as possible, make people election-oriented through allowing the indoor politics across the country.

He called upon the present caretaker government to show their transparency in all activities ensuring the good use of their hold on state power. “You are not the last government, more governments will take over after you,” he reminded.

About rationing for the poor people, he said the government should start the rationing through the chairmen and members across the country to cool the anguish of the people.

LDP general secretary Prof Zahanara Begum, among the party presidium members, spoke on the occasion.