The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Detained former premier Sheikh Hasina Sunday asked her party leaders to know beforehand the agenda of dialogue with the government, as preparation for the talks aimed at a smooth transition from the interim regime is now afoot on the caretaker government's part.

Talking to her lawyers during consultations in the courtroom, the Awami League president also asked them to play a constructive role in making the dialogue with the government meaningful. Hasina, detained in several corruption cases, advised her party leaders and workers to remain vigilant so the government cannot hold a 'stage-managed' general election. The detained leader also called for taking preparation to realize the elections as quickly as possible. "There is no alternative to movement to push forward a non-elected government towards the path of elections," she reminded her party faithful.

Hasina, who ruled the country as Prime Minister for five years from 1996, said the nation is passing through a crucial phase and the only way to overcome the challenge is election. Because, she observed, a non-elected government cannot bring any good for the country if it hangs on to power for long.

Earlier, the special court trying her fixed May 19 for order over a legal dispute whether the charge hearing could proceed on in the absence of accused former army chief Gen (retd) Mustafizur Rahman.

Mustafiz, who is on bail, is undergoing treatment at Apollo hospital. Dhaka Divisional Special Judge's Court, relocated to the parliament complex, resumed today at 10am after Hasina was brought in the courtroom amid tight security in connection with the Mig-29 scam case.