The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) has demanded clarification by the government about reported allegations against President Prof Iajuddin Ahmed.

Standing committee meeting of the party yesterday viewed with concern that allegations against the head of the state would undermine the image of the country at a time when certain alien forces are already trying to brand Bangladesh a failed state.

Some of the national dailies have been prominently publishing reports since July 23 alleging that the wife of President Iajuddin Ahmed has unduly grabbed land on lease in Dhaka City and his son taken business advantage. None has refuted the report nor the government come up with clarification raising doubts among the people. Presided over by vice-president Nurul Amin Bhuiyan the meeting demanded of the government a clarification of the government to remove the misgivings.

In a resolution the meeting supported the government move to hold upazila elections ahead of parliamentary poll. It said the local leadership would be empowered and thus image of the parties enhanced with regard to nomination of candidates to parliament.

"Those who are opposing the upazila elections are in fact opposed to the foundation of democracy at the grassroots," said a party press release.