GF for election alliance with like-minded groups, says

Gono Forum President Dr Kamal Hossain yesterday said his party would form an alliance with like-minded parties, professional and civil society bodies to contest the next general election.
The eminent jurist stressed lifting the state of emergency before the polls. He hoped that the polls would be held as per the electoral roadmap announced by the Election Commission.
Dr Kamal was talking to journalists at his city residence following a presidium meeting of his party.
He said the state of emergency should be lifted gradually and it should be lifted totally before the election.
The former foreign minister parried most of the questions on detained former prime ministers Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina, including their presence in the proposed dialogue between the government and political parties.
Replying to a question, he said if the detained former premiers are innocent, they would be released.
Dr Kamal said his party is taking preparations both for parliamentary and local government elections.
Replying a question, Dr Kamal said there is no problem in holding elections to local government bodies before the national election if a congenial atmosphere
is ensured
"We hope the election would be held according to the electoral roadmap," he said. "We, together with like-minded parties, will have to create pressure in this regard."
The Gono Forum chief observed, "We want such a parliament where lawmakers will represent the people in the true sense and look after their interests."
He emphasised creating mass awareness for a free and fair election. Healthy politics is a must for development of the country, he added.
The renowned jurist urged all to come forward to establish an effective parliament through the next election.
Gono Forum acting General Secretary Subrata Chowdhury, Presidium Member Pankaj Bhattacharya, Abdur Rouf and Mofizul Islam Khan were present at the press briefing.