The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Gano Forum president Dr Kamal Hossain yesterday said temporary release of Sheikh Hasina for overseas treatment has taken place within the purview of a legal framework.

His statement came as a major shift from his previous stand that agents of corrupt politicians inside the caretaker government are designing such release.

The leading lawyer had made the statement after Sheikh Hasina was released from the makeshift jail for eight weeks till August 6.

Dr Kamal was speaking Monday at a news conference at the party headquarters at Arambagh in the city.

Upon queries on the release of Sheikh Hasina by reporters, Dr Kamal said: "Sheikh Hasina has been released following legal procedures."

He would not elaborate.

AS the reporters sought his reaction on the prospects that former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and her two sons could be freed anytime, Dr Kamal said: "Still the BNP did not apply (for their release). Then how is it possible?"

The Gano Forum chief said he hoped the caretaker administration would perform in a way so that it gets a respectable exit from power.

He said the people expect "one hundred per cent neutrality" from the caretaker government to do its duty in the run-up to the national polls, expected to be held by December.

"We hope the government will be able to have a respectable way out," he said.

On if his party would quit the Awami League-led 14-party alliance, as its leader Sheikh Hasina faces serious graft charges, Dr Kamal said:

"It is not that Gano Forum will quit the alliance. Our stand is positive."

He said a free and fair voting should be held to form an effective parliament.

He said the country needs a broader unity, as the process of having an effective parliament is the "biggest national challenge".

He called upon the people to work together to restore democracy.