PM proposes polls-time all-party interim government

The Prime Minister hoped that the leader of the opposition would respond to the proposal to hold a free, fair and neutral election so that no confusion arises over the credibility of the polls. People will constitute the government according to their wishes by exercising their franchise," she said.

The Prime Minister said, in consultation with all political parties, particularly the Grand Alliance, she will give written advice to the President in proper time so that the national election can be held within 90 days from October 25, 2013. "In this regard, I also seek proposal from the opposition," the Prime Minister said hoping that "the opposition leader will honour my request and give value to our good wishes.

Sheikh Hasina called upon the opposition leader to withdraw the directives to her party workers to come up with knives, axes and machetes to push the country to a situation of man slaughtering to unseat the government. Urging the opposition leader to keep confidence in the people, she said, "Leave the path of anarchy. Please say in parliament what you want. Our door is always open for discussion."

The Prime Minister firmly said, the next election will be held in a completely free, fair and neutral manner. So far, 5,777 elections have been held under the present government in a free, fair and peaceful atmosphere, she said. The government never interfered in those polls and the Election Commission exercised its full authority and freedom to reflect the public opinion.

Sheikh Hasina said, people of the country don't want clashes and anarchy. In 38 years after 1975, the state power was never transferred in a peaceful situation except in 2001 when the Awami League was in power, she mentioned. Sheikh Hasina urged the opposition party to shun its destructive activities and not to damage the life and public property by hurling bombs and resorting to arson.

"Stop burning the holy Quran, setting fire to mosques and defaming Islam. Stop using the orphans in making deadly bombs in Madrasas. Stop burning innocent pedestrians and poor bus drivers to death," she said adding, "Let the people live in peace". Pointing out her previous proposal for a dialogue with the opposition leader, Sheikh Hasina said, the leader of the opposition turned down that proposal issuing her a 48- hour ultimatum to quit power and leave the country. She said the mayhem of the opposition at Shapla Chattar in Motijeel on May 4, 5 and 6, 2013 put the whole nation into a terrifying situation. "Our timely steps restored comfort in public mind ensuring their security," she said.