National Election: Announce names of all candidates at same time

Top leaders of the components of the Awami League-led 14-party combine yesterday urged Sheikh Hasina to announce at one go the names of all alliance candidates for the next national election to avoid conflict.

They made the call during talks with Prime Minister and AL President Hasina at the Gono Bhaban last night. 

Hasina's dialogue with the alliance partners was part of her ongoing initiative to hold talks with different political parties over the 11th parliamentary polls.

“We called upon the prime minister to make sure that the names of all prospective candidates of the 14-party alliance are announced at the same time. Otherwise, untoward incidents may occur over filling of nomination papers,” a top leader of the combine told this correspondent after the meeting, seeking anonymity. 

“We also requested her to ensure that no leaders of the Awami League file nomination papers in those constituencies where other alliance candidates will contest,” said another leader of the alliance, who also wished not to be named.

In her introductory speech, Hasina said the next general election would be held in a free and fair manner. She hoped that the people would re-elect the AL, considering the country's development and progress in the last 10 years, BSS adds.

Top leaders of Workers Party, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal, Jatiya Party, Torikat Federation, Bangladesher Samyabadi Dal and Bangladesh Nationalist Front were present at the meeting. 

Briefing reporters after the meeting, AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader said Hasina told the 14-party leaders that the alliance would contest the election to win it, UNB reports. 

“There is no way to consider the opponents weak.”

Talking to reporters, 14-party Spokesperson Mohammed Nasim said the alliance leaders gave Hasina the authority to decide on seat sharing.