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Bangla Blockade Called Off |
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Even though Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed failed to prove his constitutional neutrality, the 14-party coalition led by Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina said that they would call of the blockade “in view of public sufferings” till next Sunday. |
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Even though Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed failed to prove his constitutional neutrality, the 14-party coalition led by Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina said that they would call of the blockade “in view of public sufferings” till next Sunday. This overture will provide needed respite to Dhaka and major cities crippled by the blockade and also a face saving avenue for Ahmed to initiate measures where he will appear neutral. Hasina warned that they will resume the blockade on Monday if Ahmed does not demonstrate neutral intentions.
A key demand by the opposition is that the election commissioners, especially Chief Election Commissioner Justice M.A. Aziz, should resign. Aziz has refused to quit even though the other 3 Commissioners said they plan to quit “anytime” and avoid further embarrassment. Ahmed’s officials said that they will find “different means” to reform the commission since Aziz has refused to quit voluntarily. Of the 6 political groupings, 5 of them barring the right-wing led by the much discredited former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia want the commission to be restructured “without delay.
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