BNP seeks talks on nat'l issues

The BNP yesterday asked the Awami League-led government to take decisions on national issues in consultation with the leader of the opposition in parliament.
The main opposition party also demanded removal of the ruling party 'agent's' from the administration, saying that image of the government is being tarnished due to these officials.
BNP Secretary General Khandaker Delwar Hossain and Senior Joint Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir made the demands at separate programmes in the capital.
Delwar was participating in a human chain organised by the Jatiyatabadi Swechchasebok Dal in front of the Jatiya Press Club in protest against 'repression' on journalists by the ruling party.
And Mirza Alamgir addressed a press conference at the club protesting the 'attack' on a reception programme for party leader Abdul Moyeen Khan at Narsingdi.
Both the leaders reiterated the party stance on attending parliament session. They want to return to the House but the government has to create a congenial atmosphere needed for the opposition's presence in its sittings, both said.
Explaining this, Delwar said the government has to withdraw cases filed against BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Senior Vice Chairman Tarique Rahman.
He renewed BNP's offer to extend cooperation to the government in running the country for the welfare of people. "But we will be forced to take to street if the Awami League government does not refrain from its repressive and undemocratic steps and conduct," he said.
The BNP secretary general said his party along with the people will stand against any step taken by the government if it harms the country's interests.
Mirza Alamgir said at the press conference BNP will return to the House if the government takes initiative to create an atmosphere needed for this.
He said his party has initiated a 'new trend' in politics but he did not explain it. "BNP wants to establish democracy in the country, and does not want to destroy it."
Demanding punishment of those responsible for attacks on BNP leaders and activists, and journalists, Alamgir said agents of the AL have to be removed from the administration.
Replying to a question about such incidents during BNP rule, he said, "We cannot move forward just by recalling the previous incidents". He also said his party suffered a lot as it did not resort to violence. .
Party leaders present at the programmes included Rafiqul Islam Mian, Moyeen Khan, Mirza Abbas, Amanullah Aman, Salauddin Ahmed, Shahiduddin Chowdhury Annee and Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal.