The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

Awami League President Sheikh Hasina yesterday promised to ensure food security in the country and reduce the prices of essentials if her party is voted to power in the December 29 parliamentary polls.

"If Awami League wins the elections, our main task will be to ensure adequate food for the country's poor people. Another priority task will be to bring down the prices of essentials," the former Prime Minister said while addressing a views-exchange meeting with Sammilita Sangskritik Jote in the afternoon at her Dhanmondi office.

Hasina again came down heavily on the government and the Election Commission for frequent changes of dates for filing of nominations and holding the elections. She alleged that the date for election has been deferred deliberately just to allow a particular political party to indulge in conspiracy with the general election. "Awami League has been in trouble due to the deferment of dates for filing nomination and holding elections," Hasina said.

She said the people of Bangladesh know it very well under whose rule they would live a better life. "But this is a bad luck for them that the pro-people political force is not allowed to come to power."

Hasina further vowed to build Bangladesh as a non-communal country for protecting the people from the clutches of the evil force that does business in the name of religion. She was critical of the administration as zealots broke down Baul Sculpture in front of a very well secure place like the Airport.

Sheikh Hasina assured the artists of taking various steps for flourishing the country's tradition, culture and language, if she wins the polls.

The AL chief revealed her plan to build a cultural square across Dhaka University, Shilpakala and Bangla Academy areas which will be a 'worship place' for all the open-minded and progressive people.

The former premier also expressed her dream of building a modern Liberation War Museum where all the evidences of the 1971 liberation war will be preserved.

Hasina, towards the end of her speech, said the people of Bangladesh have confidence in Awami League that this party can free them from poverty and hunger. "But at the same time the conspirators will also be there to implement their blueprint. So, I urge the brave and talented people to remain alert against all the conspiracies and protect their voting rights."

Sangskritik Jote president Nasiruddin Yusuf Bachchu, general secretary Golam Kuddus, actors Mamunur Rashid, Ramendu Majumder, Ali Zaker and Afroza Banu were, among others, present at the meeting.