Khaleda talks to diplomats

BNP Chairperson and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Khaleda Zia last night held a discussion with some diplomats in the city and apprised them of the latest development in politics, particularly the ensuing municipal polls.

A close aide of Khaleda Zia told The Daily Star over telephone that the talks took place at a Gulshan residence of a party leader where some eight to ten top diplomats attended. He added the function was organised to host a dinner in honour of outgoing chief of European Commission Ambassador Michael Drury.

BNP secretary general Abdul Mannan Bhuiyan was also present at the function.

Another source said while talking with the diplomats, Khaleda apprised them of ensuing municipal elections which has been boycotted by the mainstream opposition parties.

She told the diplomats that BNP and other opposition parties truly wanted to participate in the polls and put forward a 4-point demand to ensure a free, fair elections.

Mentioning some recent incidents, including the Election Tribunal ruling in favour of BNP candidates in June 12, 1996 parliamentary polls, she also said that these clearly proved that Chief Election Commissioner Muhammad Abu Hena is not at all neutral and is working as a subservient to the ruling party.

The opposition leader mentioned Tuesday's newspaper reports and photographs which, she said, are clear evidence of the government's atrocities.

Details of the meeting could not be known immediately.