Manna: No faith in this govt, polls-time govt a must

Stating that an election-time government is a must, Nagorik Oikya Convener Mahmudur Rahman Manna said he has no faith in the current government of Bangladesh. 

He remarked this at an event titled, “Discussion on Democracy, Human Rights & Rule of law: Present Bangladesh,” organized by the National Human Rights Movement, at the press club, on Sunday. 

Speaking at the event, Manna – who is also a senior leader of the newly-formed political alliance Jatiya Oikya Front – said: “We want an election-time government, because we have no faith in the current government.

“During the previous election, on January 5, 2014, we lost our good standing with the international community, because the election was not free and fair. Under this government, no election can be held that is credible and acceptable to all.” he added.

Manna further said: "We have sent letters to the Election Commission (EC) and the prime minister. Now we are waiting. We want further dialogue with this government to ensure a free and fair parliamentary election. If the government does not accept our demands, we will stage a political movement.”

He concluded by saying: “No schedule should be announced by the Election Commission before fair polls are ensured. We will announce our program at a rally on November 6.”