The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Sylhet

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Stephan Evans on Wednesday said withdrawal of emergency is one of the preconditions of holding a credible election.

"We understand that the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh is speaking about the withdrawal of emergency in phases," he said. "But, I think there should be a time a limit to withdraw emergency," he added.

Ending his three-day visit in the country's Northeastern divisional city, the British High Commissioner made these observations at a press briefing, held at the conference room of Hotel Rose View here.

Stephen termed the last Monday's incident on the Dhaka University campus as a "painful event" and said political parties should take initiative to stop all kinds of violence and calm down their workers and supporters as well. "Because, it is the responsibility of all political parties," he said.

On a query, the British envoy high commissioner said there are lots of things for holding a credible election. The Election Commission, he added, has already completed technical works like preparation of the voters' list and computer data system.

Stephen further said that participation of all political parties is a must for holding a credible election.

Second Secretary John Raiyan and press secretary Naznin Ferdousi were present.