Ershad: Oikya Front’s demands are unconstitutional

Ershad: Oikya Front’s demands are unconstitutional

November 1st, 2018

WEB_HM Ershad_Edited_22.07.2018

File photo of HM Ershad Dhaka Tribune

Jatiya Party wants an inclusive election with the participation of all political parties

The pre-election dialogue between the 14-party alliance led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Jatiya Oikya Front is unlikely to be fruitful as the new platform’s demands are unconstitutional, Jatiya Party Chairman HM Ershad said on Thursday.

The former military ruler, who is also a special envoy to the prime minister, also said Oikya Front – founded last month – is demanding the prime minister’s resignation before the next polls, reports UNB.

“The demands of Jatiya Oikya Front cannot be accepted as per the constitution,” Ershad said while addressing reporters at the Parjatan Motel in Rangpur.

He added that the Jatiya Party wants an inclusive election with the participation of all political parties.

“BNP may not join the polls as it is currently a party without leadership while Khaleda Zia is in jail and Tarique Zia is staying abroad,” Ershad said. “I don’t think Dr Kamal can lead BNP.”

He further said Jatiya Party opposes the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) in the general election.

“The machines are yet to be properly tested,” he said.