Popularity, not name, will count

Prime Minister and Awami League President Sheikh Hasina yesterday categorically told her party lawmakers that nominations for the next national polls would be given based on popularity of the prospective candidates.

Hasina also said she would not give anyone party ticket, considering his or her identity. Those who don't have acceptability in their constituencies would not get party nominations, no matter how big leaders they are, according to sources.

She sounded the note of caution at an AL Parliamentary Party meeting at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban last night.

The AL chief also asked the MPs to resolve intra-party feuds, saying mudslinging over party nomination has already begun in different constituencies, said meeting sources.

She pointed out that there will be several contenders in every constituency, but all party men must work for the candidate nominated by the party. 

Hasina warned that she would not forgive if any of the AL activists goes against the party's decision.

She further said she does not want to see any more conflict within the party over nomination.

The AL president said she was aware of the track records and activities of the MPs, as surveys on them are carried out every six months. 

Meeting sources said some AL lawmakers accused ministers of maintaining their “own circles” and ignoring other party men.

Hasina said there had been conspiracies against the AL in the past and plots are still being hatched. But the party must move forward and overcome all hurdles.

She also asked the MPs to work sincerely for the party ahead of the next polls so that it can form government for the third consecutive time.

The AL chief told the MPs not to make any “negative remarks” that invite criticism and not to do anything for which they would have to leave the country if the party fails to retain power, according to the meeting sources.

She also advised them to visit their constituencies frequently and go door-to-door to tell people about the government's development activities as well as “the destructive politics” of the BNP-Jamaat alliance, added the sources.