Jamaat, 7 allied parties to continue movement

Eight like-minded political parties, including Jamaat-e-Islami, on Sunday announced that they would continue their movement until all their demands -- particularly the full implementation of the July charter (constitutional reform) ordinance and a national referendum -- are fully met.

"The eight-party liaison committee will meet later to finalise the schedule for upcoming protest programmes," Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar said at a joint press conference of the alliance at the Al-Falah Auditorium in the capital's Moghbazar area.

He clarified that the alliance had not announced an indefinite blockade of the chief adviser's residence, State Guest House Jamuna, despite issuing such a warning on November 14.

"The movement will continue to ensure the full implementation of our demands, which so far have only been partially addressed," Mr Porwar said.

Responding to a question on whether the alliance would stay on the streets amid fears of possible sabotage surrounding the verdict announcement for Sheikh Hasina on November 17, he said the nation would not allow the "fascist Awami League any scope for sabotage".

"On the day the verdict is announced, we -- the eight parties in the movement -- will remain in the field," he added.

Mr Porwar also expressed deep concern over the simultaneous announcement of the referendum on the July charter and the date for the upcoming national election.

The twin announcements, he warned, have created "confusion and a crisis" among the public, which the interim government must address.

talhabinhabib@yahoo.com