The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Former President and Bikalpadhara Bangladesh (BDB) chief Professor AQM Badruddoza Chowdhury on Friday questioned reservation of some political parties about the Upazila polls ahead of the general elections but suggested that a referendum could settle the debate.

"No political party raised objections when the polls schedules were announced for city corporations and nine municipalities. But some parties are now opposing plans to stage upazila elections and some even have pledged to resist it, raising suspicions of anarchy or violence," he told a press conference at his KC Memorial Clinic office here.

"When nobody opposed the mayoral polls, why objections are being raised against the upazila elections?" the former President sought to know. He, however, suggested that a referendum should be held to settle the question.

Asked whether the general elections should be held under the state of emergency, he said the coming mayoral polls could be a test case in this regard. If the August 4 mayoral polls are found acceptable to all under the emergency rule, it could be all right for the parliamentary elections also, he said.

The BDB chief evaded a direct answer when asked whether his party would again form the "grand alliance" with Awami League but said, "if needed in the interest of the country, we will not hesitate to form the grand alliance."

"When we formed the BDB, an intolerant government was in power, which exposed us to severe tortures. Bikalpadhara Bangladesh is now rapidly gaining popularity, becoming the most prospective party of the country," he said. "We will discuss with other parties to form an alliance," he added.

BDB secretary general Major (retd) Abdul Mannan and central leader Mahi B Chowdhury were present at the press conference.