‘Talks option still open’

The Awami League-led 14-Party alliance on Saturday said the option for dialogues with opposition parties was still open after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reiterated her talk offer to BNP earlier in the day.

After a meeting of the alliance, Awami League Presidium Council member Mohammad Nasim told reporters that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia should refrain from destroying the future of the students by halting their examinations by enforcing general strikes. “Refrain from the path of strikes and chaos.”

“There is still chance for discussions, attend the dialogue,” he said.

“Please return to Parliament.... Join the discussion inside or outside the Parliament, wherever necessary,” Nasim added.

Earlier on Thursday morning, Sheikh Hasina had urged the opposition to attend Parliament and place its proposal on the nature of administration it wanted to conduct the forthcoming parliament elections.

“My offer to hold dialogue is still open. Please stop violence and attend Parliament sessions,” Hasina said.

Addressing BNP chief Khaleda Zia, Nasim said, “Your 48-hour ultimatum has vaporised in the air. The Hifazat people you had put in danger have returned safely due to the assistance from Sheikh Hasina.”

He also asked the main opposition to prepare for the next general elections. “The next election will be held in line with the Constitution under an interim government under the leadership of the Prime Minister. The Election Commissioner will oversee the polls.”

The senior Awami League policymaker said the caretaker government system was a ‘weak one’. “The Prime Minister will discharge the duties of the head of the interim government.”

The 14-Party alliance in the meeting has also decided to hold rallies at different points in Dhaka on May 20 and May 21.