Hold referendum, if dialogue fails: Akbar Ali

Dr Akbar Ali Khan. Star file photo

Dr Akbar Ali Khan, a former adviser to a caretaker government, on Monday proposed holding a referendum to decide the polls-time government, if political parties fail to reach a consensus through dialogue.

"The referendum should be organised to protect the country's democracy," he said while addressing a mock debate at Bashundhara City around 11:00am.

Debate for Democracy organised the debate on "Unconditional Dialogue and Neutral Election".

To hold a fair election and ensure political stability in Bangladesh, there is no alternative to dialogue among the political parties, he said.

"Everyone will have to consider their positions for holding a successful dialogue," Akbar Ali said.