AL fears militant attack on Hasina on her return

---

Awami League acting general secretary Syed Ashraful Islam Sunday asked the caretaker government to ensure special security for party chief Sheikh Hasina ahead of parliamentary polls, reports UNB.
Talking to reporters he apprehended that Hasina on her return from US and Awami League followers might come under militant and other terrorist attacks at the time of the elections.
Earlier, Ashraful held a meeting with French Ambassador Charley Causseret at his NAM apartment.
Asked about the meeting with the Ambassador he said current political and economic issues as well as election and security matters were discussed.
Ashraful informed the envoy of Awami League's demand to withdraw the state of emergency before the polls. He said elections would not be free and fair under emergency rules.
He observed that the law and order situation during the election time can be maintained by enforcing the country's normal laws.
He requested the French Ambassador to send election observers during the parliamentary polls. However, the Ambassador did not make any commitment. Ashraful said Awami League will hold talks with the European Union in the first week of November.
The Ambassador expressed strong hope that the parliamentary polls will be held in free and fair manner on scheduled date of December 18.