The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Dhaka

MPs-elect of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) decided last night to take oath and join the first session of the new parliament, BNP leader Salahuddin Quader Chowdhury MP-elect said.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the party's newly elected MPs at its Gulshan office with its chairperson Khaleda Zia presiding.

Briefing reporters after the hour-long meeting, Salahuddin Quader said they have decided to take oath and join parliament in the interest of the country and democracy to maintain the constitutional process.

He said the government must create an atmosphere in parliament so they can play the effective role of the opposition.

Salahuddin Quader mentioned Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's "liberal mindset" expressed at her first press conference and said, "We hope we'll receive that gesture in parliament."

He said BNP will make all efforts within the legal framework to realize the accountability of the majority party in parliament. "We' ll also realize the ruling party's election commitment to get rice at Tk 10 per kg, free distribution of fertilizer and employment from each family."

Asked about oath taking, Salahuddin Quader said since there is no scope for taking oath from the Speaker, they will either take oath from the Chief Election Commissioner or the new Speaker.

Asked whether they will accept the post of the Deputy Speaker, the BNP leader said they will consider if the proposal comes.

About the new cabinet, he said they wish the new cabinet headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a success.