The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

Adviser for Commerce Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman yesterday said the forthcoming generals elections might be held under emergency to protect voters, the women and minorities in particular.

Briefing reporters after a meeting of four advisers charged with negotiating dialogue with political parties, he said, if necessary, the emergency rules would be relaxed further to facilitate election campaign and politics.

The Adviser mentioned that the government has already eased the state of emergency to such a level that it now exists only in name.

He said the government has created an environment for a meaningful voting as the people expect a credible elections and political transition to stability after the elections.

Replying to a question Hossain Zillur said there has been much progress in holding the dialogue with BNP.

"Dialogue with them (BNP) will be held soon. They are also showing great interest. I hope the dialogue will be fruitful," he said.

The Adviser said the government is taking quick steps for political transition.

On the debate on whether the elections should be held under the emergency, he argued that the emergency had not stood in the way of elections to four city corporation and nine municipalities.

Terming those elections a rehearsal for the national elections, Hossain Zillur said if there were obstacles to smooth holding of the upcoming elections the government would remove them.

He said, "Post-election violence, intimidation and vote buying were a reality in Bangladesh, which necessitated elections under emergency.

Hossain Zillur said the United Nations could realise the matter and extended its support in holding the elections under emergency. He said the European Union would also realise it soon.

He said the government was going to start dialogue at the grassroots level again to know whether there was any doubt over election and what the common people wanted.

Replying to another question the Adviser said dialogue between the two former prime ministers-Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia-was necessary for post-election stability.

He however, said it was not a matter only for the government to consider; rather they would also have to take initiatives.

Earlier, the meeting was held at the Ministry of Communications. The others advisers attending the meeting include Adviser for Communications Maj Gen (Retd) Ghulam Quader, Adviser for Law AF Hassan Ariff and Adviser for LGRD M Anwarul Iqbal.