The 11th parliamentary polls can be held any time if an agreement is reached with the Opposition after the formation of a new government following the Jan 5 polls, the finance minister has said.
AMA Muhith was speaking to reporters after visiting the construction site of a bridge in Sylhet on Friday.
On whether the new government would stay in power for five years, Muhith said, “We have not said the government will stay for five years.”
Fresh national elections could be held to ensure everybody’s participation since the 10th parliamentary election was not being held with all parties taking part, he clarified.
Muhith asked the Opposition to sit for talks.
“Come and let’s sit for talks and decide a poll date.
“That election can be held anytime after Jan 24; anytime after the oath of the new government.”
On the validity of the Jan 5 polls, the minister said, “The election should be held by Jan 24 (as per the constitutional obligation). So, the election is being held.
He said it was “not correct” to say that an election could not be held if a party were to stay out of it. “But everybody should participate in the polls.”
The ruling Awami League’s advisory council member admitted that the election would not be ‘fine’ without the Opposition’s participation.
“But if we wait for you, we won’t be able to abide by the Constitution.”
He alleged the Opposition Leader did not go by the Constitution.
“Khaleda Zia and her party (the BNP) do not want to abide by the Constitution.”
He said the party had emerged unconstitutionally.
Source: Bd news24
