AL won't participate in polls without electoral reforms
Hasina tells Russian ambassador
Staff Correspondent
Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Sheikh Hasina yesterday told the outgoing Russian ambassador that her party would not participate in the next general election if the proposed electoral reforms are not implemented and a democratic environment for a free and fair election is returned in the country. During an hour-long meeting with Oleg S Malginov at her Sudha Sadan residence at Dhanmondi in the capital, Hasina, also Awami League (AL) president, sought all-out assistance from Russia to make the next general election transparent. Briefing the journalists AL General Secretary Abdul Jalil said Malginov assured the opposition leader that they would continue to help the country for its development. The Russian ambassador hoped that a favourable environment would be established in the country to ensure a free and fair election, Jalil quoted him as saying. Talking to journalists Malginov said they discussed different bilateral issues. "It was a courtesy call. We have discussed prospects of development of the country and its people," he added. Asked about the dialogue over the electoral reforms, Malignov who served as ambassador of the Russian Federation to Bangladesh for the last three years, said the main two parties should involve in dialogue for a meaningful result. "The Russian ambassador enquired about the next general election and AL's stand in this regard," said AL presidium member Kazi Zafarullah who was present at the meeting. Hasina remembered with utmost gratitude the Russian contribution to Bangladesh's liberation war and its development during the meeting. Syed Abul Hossain and former ambassador Ziauddin were also present on the occasion.
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