Sushma made no comment on supportive govt: Quader

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader today claimed that Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma did not make any comment of election-time supportive government, a longstanding demand of BNP.

“During talks with Khaleda Zia, Sushma Swaraj spoke about a free, fair and inclusive general election in Bangladesh. BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul is optimistic for that and we too want such election,” Quader said.

Quader made the comments while addressing a press conference at Awami League President Sheikh Hasina’s Dhanmondi political office this afternoon, hours into Sushma left Dhaka after wrapping up her 24-hour visit here.

During her visit, Sushma also held separate meetings with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, foreign minister, BNP and others stakeholders.

BNP is now in charming mode after holding talks with the Election Commission and the external affairs minister of India, Quader said adding that the charming mode will go in vain.

Responding to a query over army deployment in the next polls with magistracy power, Quader said Awami League wants army deployment in the next polls as per the law and the Election Commission will take the decision in this regard.

“We are not against the deployment of defence forces during the national polls but a vested quarter is dishing out controversy over the issue,” he added.

He criticised BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir for his statements that Awami League will secure not more than 25 seats in the next general elections if it is held in a free, fair and credible manner.

People will decide who will form the next government, Quader said adding, “If the people would vote for Awami League, then we will come to power, otherwise not.”

The Awami League leader also requested BNP to join the upcoming general election for the sake of democracy.