BSS, RANGPUR: Information and Broadcasting Minister and Awami League (AL) Joint General Secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud on Wednesday said those people who tried to foil the election are now absconding.
The minister told reporters before addressing a views exchange meeting between Rangpur division AL leaders and AL central Rangpur divisional team at Zila Parishad auditorium.
Dr Hasan said apart from European Union many foreign countries are sending observers in the elections. Thirty registered political parties out of 44 are taking part in the election and a festive mood is prevailing centering the poll while average seven candidates are contesting for each seat, he said.
The minister hoped that huge number of voters will exercise their franchise. BNP had boycotted the city corporation polls, but the voting turnover was above 50 percent in that poll, he said, adding the upcoming election will also be competitive and participatory.
Hasan Mahmud said the next general polls will be held under the Election Commission and the government is assisting the commission.
Pointing out recent reshuffle in the local administration, the minister said the Election Commission (EC) is working independently. The government repeatedly registered its firm commitment to provide all out support to the EC to hold a free and fair election.
About the recent discussion with Jatiya Party (JP), the minister said the secretary general of the party (JP) has already cleared that they have submitted nominations to take part in the polls.
Jatiya Party is working with us as our ally to consolidate our democratic process and constitutional progress of the country, Dr Hasan said.
AL Organising Secretary Sujit Roy Nandi, Planning Secretary Washika Ayesha Khan, central committee members Advocate Hosne Ara Lutfa Dalia and Advocate Safura Begum Rumi, among others, addressed the meeting with AL Treasurer HN Ashiqur Rahman in the chair.
AL Rangpur city and districts level leaders and workers took part in the meeting.
