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AL preparing to contest poll, says Zillur

Staff Correspondent
During an iftar party yesterday Awami League (AL) declared to foreign diplomats that it is preparing to contest in the upcoming parliamentary election, and put out a call to all other political parties to follow suit.
"We believe, for the sake of democracy, all other political parties will also participate in the parliament election. The parliament election must be held on the announced date," said AL Acting President Zillur Rahman at the iftar gathering hosted by his party in a hotel of the capital in honour of the diplomats and heads of . international agencies stationed in Dhaka.
Zillur said withdrawal of all 'false cases' against Hasina is essential to create a congenial atmosphere for free, fair and transparent elections, and remarked that it will be impossible to move forward without making Hasina's release permanent.
"Awami League believes in politics of constructive engagement, peace, and equal rights of all for prosperity of the nation, rather than the politics of denial," he said, and vowed if his party is voted to power they will continue the 'impartial and lawful drive against corruption' and will continue the institutional reforms.
"But we never support drive against politics in the name of drive against corruption. Institutional reform was indeed our demand, we shall continue this reform," said Zillur in his written speech.
Saying that the diplomats and development partners have been playing a very important role in the development process of Bangladesh, Zillur sought more help from them for turning the country into a mid-level developed country by 2020.
Dora Rapold, dean of the diplomatic corps, on behalf of all diplomats said Bangladesh faces immense challenges regarding holding fair and free elections without violence, building a functioning democracy and parliament. and bringing reforms for better governance and development which will enable the country to play its role in a globalised world.
"All Bangladeshis and in particular their leaders are challenged to play their part and assume responsibility for a successful transition to parliamentary government and a sustainable democracy where understanding, cooperation and the pursuit of the interests of the whole country prevail," she said.
"We extend our best wishes for a peaceful transition and a bright future for Bangladesh," she read from a written speech.
Dora Rapold, the ambassador of Switzerland, said the diplomats also dream of a bright and better future, and peaceful political and economic development for Bangladesh, and hopes that the forthcoming transition will be used as a great window of opportunity to fulfil the aspirations of the millions of its citizens.
Warmly received by AL leaders Asaduzzaman Noor and Sheikhul Arefeen, heads of almost all diplomatic missions in Dhaka attended theiftar.