"In the next general elections, the BNP-led coalition will bag 170 to 180 seats while the Awami League 115," he said, adding, "The Jatiya Party will lend its support to the party that will form the government after winning the election."

The former president made his prediction at a press conference at his 'Palli Nibas' here.

Asked about the basis of his prediction, Ershad said, "I have made it through proper calculation, which will not prove wrong."

He said if the BNP-led coalition loses 50 seats from its present strength in parliament and the Awami League gains 50 over its present number, even then the latter will not be able to form the government.

About the expulsion of Bidisha from the party, the JP chief said, "It was a right decision, as she (Bidisha) was trying to destroy the party through hatching conspiracy."

After the expulsion of Bidisha, the JP heaved a sigh of relief, he said.