The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Srimangal

Chief Advisor Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed said here Sunday that preparation for holding general elections is at the final stage and urged the voters to elect honest, competent and dedicated representatives to parliament for socio-economic development and sustainable democracy.

"Elections will be held in the 3rd week of December as announced by the Election Commission. We hope those who will be elected will establish good governance and strengthen democracy," he said at the local level national dialogue on Democratic Transition at PDU auditorium.

The Chief Advisor said eight crore people have already been registered in the voters' list and the Representation of the People's Order (RPO) will be finalized soon enabling the Election Commission to make rules and regulations independently for holding free and fair elections.

In reply to a question, Dr Fakruddin said it would not be possible for the caretaker government to hold Zila Parishad elections because of time constraints and hoped the next elected government will complete it. He said formulation of Zila Parishad laws is also at the final stage.

Asked about amendment of the Article 70 of the Constitution, he said these matters were discussed during the dialogue with political parties but the incumbent government does not want to amend the Constitution as it does not have that mandate.

He said discussions on the process of amending the Constitution were held and the next elected government can take decision in this respect.

Asked about the fate of anti-graft drive, the Chief Advisor said the caretaker government brought about institutional reforms and the Anti-Corruption Commission and the judiciary were made independent. The next government, he hoped, would carry on the drive.

About candidature from Manipuri tribe in national elections, he said there is no problem for them to contest in local and national elections.

Foreign Affairs Advisor Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury moderated the dialogue attended by representatives of teachers, freedom fighters, lawyers, farmers, women, NGOs and tea garden owners and workers.

Law Advisor Hassan Ariff, Communications Advisor Ghulam Quadir and LGRD Advisor Anwarul Iqbal were present.