The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Rangpur

Retracting his earlier hope of becoming the President of the country Jatiya Party chairman HM Ershad today said it would not be wise to get confined in the presidency.

"I think it would not be wise for me to become the President because it would make me leave politics for ever," he told reporters replying to a question at his Palli Nibash resident.

He was reminded of his repeated claim during the election campaign that he joined the AL led grand alliance on promise that he would be made the country's president if elected in the December 29 election.

"I would have to relinquish the parliamentary seat of Dhaka if I become the President," he said giving another reason for not insisting for the post.

Ershad dropped a positive hint that he would accept the position of deputy leader of the house. "I will welcome the proposal," he said about an offer speculated by a section of the media.

About the proportionate representation of Jatiya Party in the cabinet he said more ministers might be inducted from his party in an enlarged cabinet. GM Qader is now the lone minister taken from JP.

Ershad lauded the cabinet saying honest and clean personalities chosen as ministers would enhance the image of the government.