Obaidul Quader, the AL general secretary, spoke about PM Sheikh Hasina’s expected reaction to elections and criticised student leaders and organisations at an event at Dhaka University.
Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would never influence public opinion, even if she loses the election, at the golden jubilee celebrations of Masterda Surja Sen Hall at TSC, Dhaka University on Friday morning.
Speaking as the chief guest, Obaidul said: “I have known her for the last 36 years. Her difficult life, full of risks and struggles, has made her a strong leader, If she remains the PM, the election commission will be granted full support to hold a free and fair election.”
He said a big challenge for the election commission would be to stop the use of black money.
Quader expressed his disappointment with the current state of political rhetoric, which is devoid of respect and courtesy.
“It has come down to a level where people hesitate to participate in social programmes in case it harms their political careers,” he added.
Criticising student leaders’ extravagant spending, Obaidul said former leaders of student organisations used to travel by bus or train but now the trend is to travel by plane.
He urged teachers not to give in to the threats and demands made by student leaders.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Mohammad Nasim and Jatiya Sangsad Deputy Speaker Md Fazle Rabbi Miah reiterated Obaidul’s statement.
“Election in Bangladesh will be held the same way as it is held in other democratic countries like the US, India, etc,” Nasim said while addressing a memorial organised to observe Raktakta Bhuiyangati Day in Raiganj, Sirajganj on Thursday.
“The election will be held while she is the head of the government, as per the constitution,” he said. “So there is no point trying to come up with some alternative way for the elections.”
Speaking at the golden jubilee celebrations of Rangamati Government Girls’ High School on Thursday.
Fazle said: “The election will take place on time, at the end of the government’s term…. it will be held regardless of who takes part in it or not.”
Source: Dhaka Tribune