"Such racket was unnecessary in arresting her [Hasina], she could have been arrested in other ways," Sultana Kamal, executive director of Ain O Salish Kendra, a legal aid organisation, said replying to a question.

She was speaking to reporters at a press conference in Jatiya Press Club yesterday which was organised by the Strong Local Government National Convention Organising Committee, comprising 27 organisations that work with local governments for better governance.

When asked about the role of the army in strengthening the local government system, she said, "In democracy, the army cannot play any direct role in governance. Their [the army's] main task is to deal with defence."

"The army could play a role at the time of national disasters," she added.

"We are in a critical situation at present," the former adviser said, adding, "We all hope to return to a democratic system."

In demand for building stronger local governments, Strong Local Government National Convention Organising Committee is organising a daylong convention on July 22 at the Biam auditorium in the capital.

Adviser to the Local Government and Rural Development Ministry Anwarul Iqbal is expected to be present as the chief guest of the convention.

Five taskforces have been formed to make recommendations on different aspects of local government at the convention. About 700 representatives from different local government bodies including chairmen and members are expected to be present at the convention.

All recommendations made at the convention would be placed before a committee, which the government formed to find out ways to strengthen the local government.

Dr AMM Shawkat Ali, a former secretary, heads the seven-member committee.