The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB Dhaka

Convenor of Progressive Democratic Party (PDP)

Dr Ferdous Ahmed Qureshi yesterday urged the government to take immediate steps against top corrupt elements at the district and upazila levels before the elections.

“Take actions against the corrupt elements at the district and upazila levels, or else, they would capture the top political and economic positions at the national level by using their arms and black money,” he told a press conference at his party office.

Qureshi said there are 2-3 serious graft cases in each district while 2-1 in each upazila which could be brought under the speedy trial act.

The press conference was arranged to express the party’s view about the country’s current political situation and give its formal reaction to the CA’s address to the nation.

“The root of corruption in our national life is much deeper than what we think and it cannot be uprooted by merely taking steps against a handful of high-profile people,” Qureshi told journalists.

He said the government could set an example by taking steps against the top corrupt people at the district and upazila levels alongside its ongoing drive against the national-level corrupt elements.

“The message should reach the people at the district and upazila levels that nobody is above the law and anytime they may be caught and punished by the law,” Qureshi said.

Dr Qureshi, however, hailed the Chief Adviser’s May 12 address to the nation saying that it has reflected the people’s expectations. “It was very suggestive for the nation.”

He said the CA’s address has made the government’s stand about many issues clear and removed the people’s confusion over the upcoming parliamentary and local body elections.

“The announcement to hold the parliamentary elections in the third week of December as per the declared roadmap and completion of upazila and municipality elections before it has ended all the speculations,” he added.

The PDP convenor advocated for keeping the Emergency Power Rules (EPR) in force during all elections, including parliament. “It’s indispensable to keep in place the EPR for holding free and fair elections.”

Replying to a query, Dr Qureshi said there is no relation between the state of emergency and the election. “Those who are crying for withdrawal of the EPR have their motives behind it.”

When asked about the dialogue, he said the government’s dialogue with political parties is not so important as the government would take its final decision on any issue. “It (govt) should decide its own course of action….”

Replying to another question about the release of Khaleda and Hasina, he said it might be the demand of BNP and Awami League and he had no comment to make about it.