HUDAI TESTING

The participants include BNP, Revolutionary Workers’ Party, Jatiya Party (Kazi Jafar), Ganosamhati Andolan, Gono Odhikar Parishad, a faction of Gano Forum, AB Party, Rashtra Sanskar Andolan, Jatiya Ganotantrik Party (JAGPA), Nagorik Oikko, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Sammilito Ulema Mashayekh Parishad, Bhasani Parishad, and a faction of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ). Islami Andolan Bangladesh Amir Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim called on the people not to go to the polling centres to vote in the upcoming 12th parliamentary elections slated for 7 January. Requesting this to the people at the fag end of the dialogue, he said, “Islamic parties, please don’t extend solidarity to an oppressive government. Those who believe in the spirit of liberation, don’t contest the election that would be held following a blueprint.” He remarked that there was a suspicion regarding the presence of people before starting the dialogue. We are overjoyed seeing everyone here. We have got everyone’s opinions. Our plan of action will be presented soon, he added. Remarking that the Islami Andolan has to take the responsibility of fulfilling the national aspiration created through the dialogue today, BNP standing committee member Nazrul Islam Khan said, “The government’s oppression and torture has brought the left-leaning and rightist parties on the same dais. A unity of the oppressed has been formed. The people of Bangladesh seek a reliable leadership, this responsibility has to be taken.” Speaking at the dialogue, Jatiya Party (Kazi Jafar) chairman Jamal Haider said the consensus has already been reached. Everyone has attended here. People will take to the streets like 1971 against the government if three bigger parties - the BNP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolan - call in unison. Taking part in any meeting with Islamic parties, Revolutionary Workers’ Party general secretary Saiful Haque said when a house catches fire, you need to call all the neighbours. As fire breaks out in the country, progressive, democratic and Islamic parties have joined here. The government needs a big push where Islami Andolan can play a big role.