The New Nation - Internet Edition

JS polls now on Dec 29: Nomination filing extended till Nov 30; Scrutiny Dec 3, 4; Withdrawal Dec 11: Upazila elections Jan 22

ATM Shamsul Huda

Staff Reporter

The ninth parliamentary polls will be held on December 29 and upazila on January 22, as the Election Commission yesterday announced fresh schedules deferring the elections by 11 days and 25 days respectively.

Chief Election Commissioner ATM Shamsul Huda announced the new date yesterday after hectic negotiations with top government functionaries and representatives from all major parties.

"The changes have been made to ensure all party participation in the election and we hope that these amendments will be acceptable to all," Dr Huda said at a crowded press briefing at his Secretariat.

"I think with this announcement, there will be no uncertainty about the elections and all parties will launch their preparedness for the polls," the CEC said at the press conference.

The Commission also extended the deadline for filing nomination papers for the national elections by a week to November 30 and for the upazila elections to December 13.

Scrutiny of nomination papers submitted by national election candidates will be held on December 3 and 4. December 11 is the last date for the withdrawal of nomination.

Upazila candidates' paper scrutiny will be on December 17 and 19. The last date for withdrawal is December 31.

The election schedule was first announced on November 2 but amended twice on November 9 and on November 19 keeping the election dates-parliamentary polls on Dec 18 and Upazila polls on December 28-the same.

This is the third change in the election schedule following threats from BNP chairperson and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to boycott the long awaited election.

Since then, advisers of the interim government had been ferrying between the parties and to try and resolve the standoff.

With no consensus reached, the government said on Wednesday it would stick to its original plan and there would be no delay.

But 24 hours later the BNP said it would take part in the polls if the date was moved to December 28 and the emergency lifted, prompting EC to begin talks with both sides again.

"I clearly say that we will take part in elections on December 28 to restore democracy and to establish the basic rights of the people," said Khaleda Zia late Thursday.

After intense negotiations in the face of BNP's demand to push back the election date last week, the CEC on Saturday said they were going to defer the election date for nine to 11 days.

Yesterday, the Commission rescheduled the polls and the CEC announced it at a crowded press conference at his office.

The Commission, however, decided not to scrap Section (e) of the Representation of the People Order (RPO) committing to check the abuse of the rule.

The CEC said any kind of allegation against the candidates would have to be placed in writing and then the Commission would conduct an investigation into the allegation.

"Then a full hearing will be arranged and the commission will take decision on the basis of a majority opinion."

Dr Huda also said the candidates should not get worried about these issues as they can go to the higher court if they dislike the decision taken by the Commission. "There'll be enough safeguards for them," he added.

Dr Huda mentioned that these rules should be retained for those who could violate the electoral rules and code of conduct.

He said the Commission would strongly recommend the caretaker government to lift the emergency after the withdrawal of candidature as both the contending electoral alliances have demanded it.

The CEC said, "We've already told the government to withdraw the emergency after withdrawal of candidature."

About the changed schedules, he said the commission today discussed with both the big alliances of BNP and AL the matter and listened to them before changing the election schedules for the third time.

"They've given us the necessary clarifications about some matters," he said about the last-minute parleys with delegations from the two rival political camps for untying the Gordian knot.

He said the commission hoped that the newly announced election schedules would be acceptable to all the political parties

Election Commissioners M Sohul Hussain and Brig Gen (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain and EC secretary M Humayun Kabir, among others, were present at the press briefing.

Frequent rescheduling of polls nothing but a conspiracy: Hasina

A delegation of Dhaka University teachers called on
Awami League President Sheikh Hasina at her Dhanmondi office
yesterday. FocusBangla

Staff Reporter

Former Prime Minister and Awami League (AL) president Sheikh Hasina yesterday alleged that rescheduling rescheduling of parliament elections is nothing but a conspiracy to foil the polls.

She made this comment while talking to newsman after a meeting with Dhaka University teachers at Dhanmondi party office just an hour before the announcement of the new schedule for the polls by the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dr ATM Shamsul Huda.

Sheikh Hasina urged the people to remain alert and frustrate any conspiracy against the long awaited national polls.

"Conspiracies are going on to foil the national election. But the people want election and therefore, it must take place. Let the people exercise their franchise to establish an elected government. We want a free, fair and transparent election to reflect the will of the people," she added.

She said change of the election schedule for the fourth time has put us in a difficult situation. It is inconceivable why the schedule was changed all of a sudden. Problem is not with us. The government gave a proposal to a party to defer the elections. There is no scope of involving us in this matter," she noted.

She pointed out that she has never seen in her life that the election schedule was changed four times. The repeated rescheduling of the election may encourage the use of black money in the electioneering," she felt.

Referring to BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia's demand for lifting the state of emergency, Hasina said, " If she wants withdrawal of the emergency then why she demanded deferment of the elections. Her demand only delays the withdrawal of the emergency," she said.

Replying to a question about the governments' initiative for creating level playing field, she said, " The caretaker government has taken the responsibility of purging the real corrupts and is working like "Surf Excel" detergent."

She also termed the government's anti-corruption drive an anti-politics drive and said that

the real corrupts were coming out of jail on bail.

She informed that she was not completely fit as her hearing has not been completely restored and that she had brought three months' medicines for glucoma.

She was highly critical of the arrest of teachers of Dhaka University after the campus unrest in August last year and stated that it was a gross violation of human rights.

She expressed her dismay over her detention and said, "I was completely isolated in prison.

She thanked the teachers who had demanded her release after her detention.

Former vice chancellor of Dhaka University professor A K Azad Chowdhury, Prof. AAMS Arefin Siddiqui, Dr Harun-ur-Rashid, Dr Anwar Hossain, Prof. Akhtaruzzaman and others attended the meeting.

Poll aspirants battle around Sudha Sadan

Clash between the supporters of Awami League leaders
who got the party tickets for parliamentary elections and
the nomination-deprived candidates in front of Sudha Sadan,
the residence of Sheikh Hasina at Dhanmondi, on Sunday.
FocusBangla

Staff Reporter

The vicinity of Sudha Sadan, residence of Awami League (AL) president Sheikh Hasina, yesterday turned into a veritable battlefield, as series of clash took place between the supporters of leaders who received party tickets and those who did not.

At least four people were injured as supporters locked in clash for a second day yesterday outside the Sudha Sadan.

The agitating followers of former army chief KM Shafiullah, who is an unsuccessful aspirant of AL ticket for Narayanganj-1 constituency, attacked the supporters of Gazi Golam Dastgir, who got the nomination for that seat.

Two of the injured, Iqbal and Kiron were identified, as the supporters of Shafiullah, while the identity of another could not be known.

Later the supporters of Hannan Firoze, who is the founder president of Stamford University Bangladesh, agitating for nomination of Firoze for Jhalokathhi-1 locked in clash with Shafiullah's supporters on the spot.

An hour-long chase and counter chase took place between the two groups. The two groups scuffled and hurled brickbats at each other until police were forced to baton-charge the crowd to disperse them.

The Sudha Sadan has seen protests build since the party started to distribute nominations last week for the upcoming parliamentary polls.

The delegation of deprived AL leaders including Mohammad Ali, who sought nomination from Narsingdhi-1, Barrister Amirul Islam from Kushitia-3, Shamsul Alam Dudu from Joypurhat-1, Dr Hannan Firoze (Jhalkathi-1) and Barrister Zakir Ahmed from Brahmanbaria-5 met Hasina and requested her to reconsider the nominations in those constituencies.

McCain to visit Dhaka next month

McCain

Staff Reporter

US Senator John McCain is scheduled to visit Bangladesh next month early as part of a broader regional trip, according to US Embassy in Dhaka.

Sources said, Senator McCain would be accompanied by Senator Joseph Lieberman and Senator Lindsey Graham.

They will meet with government officials, political party leaders and members of civil society to discuss bilateral issues.

Senator John McCain was elected to the US Senate in 1986 from Arizona. He was the Republican nominee for the presidential election held on November 4.

Senator Joseph Lieberman has represented Connecticut in the Senate since 1988. He was the Democratic nominee for Vice President in 2000.

Senator Lindsey Graham has represented South Carolina in the Senate since 2002.

All three Senators are members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, with Sen. McCain serving as the Ranking Member.

Army to be deployed during polls

Staff Reporter

Home Adviser Major Gen (Retd) MA Matin yesterday said Army will be deployed during the elections as per the requirement of the Election Commission (EC).

He said that security will not be relaxed even if emergency rule is lifted.

The decision came from a meeting of the advisory Council Committee on law and order on the issue of security during the parliamentary and Upazila elections. The Adviser presided over the meeting that was attended, among others by Noor Mohammad, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Hasan Mahmud Khandakar, Director General (DG) of RAB, Major General Shakil Ahmed, Director General (DG) of BDR and the Election Commission officials were also present at the meeting.

The Adviser told the journalists that army, navy, BDR and other law-enforcing agencies would be on duty during the election period.

He said four to five platoons of military personnel will be deployed in each district along with the police, BDR and Ansar.

When asked on the date for troops deployment, the Adviser said the army will be deployed for a few days in accordance with the need of the Election Commission.

He also said Army would remain deployed as mobile striking force on the polling-day around the polling centres to deal with an emergency.

Replying to a question on the situation after the lifting of the state of emergency, the Adviser said the situation will remain normal after the lifting of the state of emergency.

He said the people of the country are eagerly waiting for parliamentary polls for nearly two years.

"The Government will take all necessary steps for ensuring smooth polls," he added.

He, however, could not say the specific date for lifting the emergency rule. The government will take decision on lifting the state of emergency.

On the issue of VIP's security Gen Matin said the police and other security agencies have been ordered to ensure complete security for them.

"This year, voting will be carried out in 35,500 voting centres with 1 lakh 22 thousand booths and the number may be increased for the upazila polls," said Adbul Karim, Home Secretary to the journalists.

Diversify export to absorb global shocks: Moriarty

Staff Reporter

The US Ambassador to Diversify James F Moriarty yesterday said that Bangladesh should give priorities on investment in infrastructure, diversification of exports, enhancing food security and development of human resources to tackle global economic crisis.

He was addressing a meeting as chief guest on "World Economic Crisis and Its Impact on Bangladesh" at Westin Hotel here. The International Business Forum of Bangladesh (IBFB) organised the meeting. IBFB President Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury addressed the meeting while representatives from diplomatic missions, donor agencies and development partners and high officials from government were present in the meeting.

Moriarty said that the United States will continue to be a committed partner as Bangladesh pursues these endeavours.

"The effort and resources expended on this financial crisis have led some to question the commitment of developed countries to helping poor nations around the globe. Let there be no question that the United States will continue to stand by its friends, including Bangladesh," he said.

"The world currently faces serious economic challenges. The crisis in financial markets is affecting the real economy in almost every corner of the world," the US Ambassador said.

"Open economies and well-functioning markets are essential to economic growth, employment and prosperity. This crisis can only be resolved through a commitment to the rule of law, respect for private property, open trade and investment, competitive markets and efficient, well-regulated capital markets," he further said.

"The United States has taken systematic, aggressive, bipartisan measures to protect the financial security of the American people and the global community. The measures aim to shore up troubled financial institutions, unlock credit markets and thaw global liquidity," he explained his government initiative to tackle the economic crisis.

"The US Government in October passed bipartisan legislation providing funds to help banks rebuild capital and resume lending. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation broadened its guarantees for depositors, banks and other institutions. The Federal Reserve lowered interest rates, increased support for banks, and launched a new program to support short-term financing for American businesses," the US Ambassador informed.

He said that the G-20 leaders launched a 47-point action plan which include transparency and accountability, sound regulation, financial market integrity, international cooperation, and the reform of international financial institution.

Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury said that the economy of Bangladesh has already been affected by food and energy crisis.

"Bangladesh will soon have a new government that will be friendly and helpful towards the business community. The new government will look upon the current economic crisis as a great opportunity for change that will help accelerate economic growth in Bangladesh," he said.

EC holds hearing on objections against 7 monitoring bodies

UNB, Dhaka

The Election Commission (EC) Sunday held hearing on objections against seven organizations prior to considering their enlistment as election observers.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dr. ATM Shamsul Huda and commissioners M Sohul Hussain and Brig. Gen. (retd) M Sakhawat Hossain were present at the hearing that took place from 11am-1pm at the EC conference room.

The seven organizations of election observers are Bangladesh Center for Development Journalism and Communication (BCJDC), Democracy Watch, BRAVE, Jagarani Chakra Foundation, Khan Foundation, Light House and Srijani Bangladesh.

A total of 319 oraganisations earlier applied to the EC for enlistment as election observers. The EC initially selected 138 organisations after scrutinizing applications.

Of the 138 organisations, objections have been raised against 25 applicants by different political parties questioning their neutrality.

The EC will hold another hearing on Monday at 2:30 pm for 14 other organisations against whom objections have been raised.

Meanwhile, objections have been withdrawn against four organizations-Noakhali Rural Development Society, Shariatpur Development Society, Coast Trust and ANFREL.

BNP welcomes new poll schedule: Govt urged to create congenial atmosphere

Staff Reporter

Welcoming the Election Commission's for announcing fresh schedule of parliamentary and upazila polls, BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia yesterday demanded of the government to lift the state of emergency for the sake of free and fair elections.

She urged the government to create such environment that all political parties could take part in the election. Under the state of emergency people of the country could hardly exercise their franchise without fear and intimidation.

"It is the government's responsibility to create an election atmosphere that enables all parties to join it," she said.

" We welcome the EC's declaration for election schedule and strongly believe that under the emergency rule free, fair and credible elections could not be possible," she said while welcoming 25 former army officers led by Lt Col (Retd) Abdul Khaleque joining to BNP at her Gulshan office in the city.

Citing the example of recently held City Corporation elections the Chairperson of BNP said those elections were not held in free and fair manner.

" We witnessed a number of parliamentary elections held in the country without emergency," she mentioned.

She suggested the government to lift the state of emergency immediately and help people and political parties to start their electoral campaign without fear.

" People of the country would get respite if the government lifts the emergency rules," she added.

Citing the grave situation prevailing in the country, Begum Zia said the country has lagged behind 20 years during the two years rule of the present government.

She called upon the countrymen to vote for the BNP led four-party alliance to save the country's sovereignty and independence.

Regarding Representation of People Order (RPO), she called upon the Election Commission (EC) to repeal of RPO Section 91(E) that gives the Election Commission power to cancel candidacy and deferment of Upazila polls.

Mentioning the BNP led four-party alliance as a force, she said the unity and strength of the alliance is increasing day by day and is fully capable to fulfil the aspirations of the people.

Begum Zia said BNP did a lot for the welfare of the countrymen during their last five years.

" Inshaallah the four-party alliance would come to power again in the next election by the mandate of the people," she added.

She called upon the newcomers to BNP to remain united and work for the welfare of the party and the countrymen.

European Troika hails Govt's poll preparations

UNB, Dhaka

The troika of the European Union appreciated the election preparations currently undertaken by the government leading to free, fair and credible polls.

The troika comprising Ambassador Charley Causeret of France, Ambassador Britt Hagstrom of Sweden and Ambassador Stefan Frowein of the European Commission said this while making a joint call on Foreign Adviser Dr Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury at the Foreign Ministry on Sunday.

During their meeting the Ambassadors reportedly discussed a wide range of issues with the Foreign Adviser.

Speaking to the media later, the Foreign Adviser said, "The three Ambassadors confirmed to me that there will be an Observer Mission from the European Commission to cover the elections".

He further said, "I see this as a very good and encouraging news, as I had been in correspondence and conversation with the European Foreign Affairs Commissioner Dr. Benita Ferrero-Waldner on the subject for several months".

"Besides, the European Union is an important partner of Bangladesh… Whenever we get an opportunity we discuss a large number of issues of mutual interest as we did today", Dr Iftekhar Chowdhury concluded.

Nomination papers of Major Mannan refused

UNB, Laxmipur

The election officer of Ramgati yesterday refused to accept the nomination papers of Maj (rtd) M A Mannan of Bikalpadhara on ground of violation of the code of conduct.

Explaining reason for refusing to accept the nomination papers, Ramgati Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ahsanur Rahman Habib told UNB that "Mannan Saheb has shown extravaganza by flying in helicopter to Ramgati from Dhaka and demonstration of show down of Honda procession. By doing this he has violated the code of conduct."

Deputy Commissioner of Laxmipur Rafiqul Islam Sarkar, also Returning officer, said flying in helicopter and show down of Honda procession for filing nomination was violation of section 8( c ) of the code of conduct of the candidates.

"His nomination will however be accepted as and when he comes usual way," added the DC.

Major (rtd) Mannan was not available to comment.

Positive political developments: DSE attains biggest jump

Staff Reporter

The positive political developments for holding the national elections with the participation of all parties has yesterday led to the Dhaka share market highest gains in four months.

During the day's trading in the country's premier bourse the General Index

(DGEN) rose sharply as high as 110 points to 2,726 just before but closed a little lower and recorded 101 points or 3.86 per cent gain at 2,717 compared to Thursday's 2,616 points.

Earlier, the benchmark index hit its single-day high by 105 points increase on July 24.

The DGEN started sliding from the level of 2,720 points recorded on

November 4 and was hovering just over the 2,500 mark until Thursday. Investors believes that the market will be better following the announcement of fresh schedule for elections.

Stockbrokers said the banking shares that have been ignored for long found their ways during the day's trading as the investors took position on the low-priced stocks to tap the benefit of the speculations over the political situation.

Trading of National Bank Limited and Dutch-Bangla Bank Limited faced trade halt as their prices shot up to touch their respective circuit breaker.

On Thursday, the uncertainty over holding the elections has sparked fears among the investors of political instability, pushing the Dhaka Stock Exchange back on losing streak.

Of the total 224 issues traded on the day, 173 registered gains, 43 incurred losses and eight remained unchanged.

As a result, the day's total turnover increased to Tk 2.70 billion from Tk 2.01 billion on Thursday while market capitalization rose to Tk 996 billion from Tk 959 billion.

The All Shares Price Index (DSI) increased 82 points or 3.79 per cent to close at 2,244 from 2,162 points on Thursday while the DSE-20 index of selective shares rose 87 points or about 4 per cent to close at 2,281 from 2,193 points on Thursday.

Uttara Bank, Beximco Pharma, National Bank, Titas Gas, AB Bank, Brac

Bank, GRAMEENS2, Beximco, Islami Bank and Dutch-Bangla Bank were the day's turnover leaders in terms of value.

The day's volume leaders were AIMS 1st Mutual Fund, GRAMEENS2,

Beximco Pharma, Beximco Textiles, Golden Son, Beximco, Agni Systems

Limited, Keya Detergent and Fu-Wang Foods.

Top gainers of the day were National Bank, IFIC, Prime Insurance,

Brac Bank, Kay & Que, Apex Footwear, Shyampur Sugar, Renwick, AB Bank and Apex Spinning.

Top losers were National Tubes, Dandy Dyeing, Fine Foods, Metalex Corporation, ACI Formulations, Power Grid, Eastern Lubricant,

Sonargaon Textiles, 8th ICB and BD Luggage.