The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Ambassadors of nine Muslim countries Sunday called on Awami League president Sheikh Hasina and discussed matters concerning parliament elections scheduled on December 18. The Ambassadors of Kuwait, Egypt , United Arab Emirates , Libya , Palestine , Morocco , Oman, Qatar and Iraq during the meeting with Hasina at her Sudhasadan residence hoped that all political parties would participate in the elections, which should be free and fair.

"The envoy of the Muslim countries have told our leader that they strongly expect the parliamentary polls in Bangladesh will be held on December 18 as declared by the Election Commission," AL spokesperson Syed Ashraful Islam told reporters after an hour-long meeting started at 11:40am.

Ashraful said the Muslim diplomats wanted to know about preparations of Awami League to contest the polls.

"Our leader told them that Awami League is ready to contest the long-awaited parliament elections," he said.

The envoys were apprised of Awami League's demand for lifting the state of emergency fully before the polls.

Ashraful said Sheikh Hasina explained the importance of lifting of the emergency rules to create congenial atmosphere before and during the polls.

He said the emergency rules will work as the biggest obstacle to arrange the general elections in a free and fair manner. "AL wants the emergency law must go immediately", he said.

Asked about BNP's indecision to contest the elections, Ashraful said they hoped the caretaker government will be able to solve their problems and ensure participation of all parties in the race.

Ashraful said the government must create such an environment where all parties will participate as there is no alternative to the December 18.

The envoys also enquired about Sheikh Hasina's health and shared views on labour migration from Bangladesh to Middle East and other Muslim countries, he said.

Talking to the reporters the Palestine's envoy said they hoped that all political parties will contest the elections.