Govt is on right track

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Stephen Evans yesterday said the caretaker government is moving towards a general election in December and the process is on the right track.
“Lots of works have been done by the caretaker government in last 18 months that include an impressive voter list, amendment of electoral rules and series of dialogues with political parties. These are key requirements for a free and fair election and we think the government is heading towards a right direction to hold the general election on December 18,” said the envoy at a meeting with the journalists of different print and electronic media at the VIP Lounge of Chittagong Press Club (CPC) in the evening.
“Election under the state of emergency is permissible as per Bangladesh law. But I would say total lifting of emergency will create the most desirable and ideal situation for free and fair election,” said the high commissioner when asked by the journalists which situation -- partial relaxation or complete lifting of emergency -- will be supported by his government.
Citing their recent bilateral talks with the chief adviser and other advisers, Evans said they have received assurances and commitment from the caretaker government that the upcoming election would be free, fair and credible and all parties concerned would take part in it.
Daily Purbokone Editor Taslimuddin Chowdhury and Daily Azadi Editor MA Malek also spoke on the occasion.
Director (trade and commerce) of the High Commission Kevin Ringham and official Kamrun Nahar were also present.
Earlier, CPC President Ali Abbas, General Secretary Ejaz Yusoofi and other members of the club greeted the envoy and his entourage with bouquets.