No dialogue, no election in 5 years, says Nasim

FE Team | Published: January 24, 2014 00:00:00 | Updated: November 30, 2026 06:01:00

Awami League (AL) presidium member and Health Minister Mohammad Nasim Thursday ruled out the possibility of any dialogue between the government and the BNP in five years, reports UNB.
"The national election has taken place as per the constitution, and it's for five years. So, there's no possibility to initiate dialogue before that," he said.
The minister said this while briefing reporters after a meeting of AL-led 14-party alliance at AL president's Dhanmondi political office in the city.
Nasim, also the coordinator of the 14-party, said, "The election will be held at the appropriate time. We've been elected for five years. So, there's no scope to hold dialogue and election in between the time."
Mentioning that BNP chief Khaleda Zia's speech on joint forces' operation in Satkhira is tantamount to sedition, the AL leader said, "Force is needed to apply sometimes for peace. So, the joint forces have got tough. But how could Khaleda Zia call them foreigners? It's utter nonsense, tantamount to sedition and a threat to country's sovereignty. Action might be taken against her."
In reply to a question that the national anti-graft body is investigating the wealth of many ministers and MPs, Nasim said, "The Anti-corruption Commission (ACC) is an independent body. It'll take action as per its jurisdiction…And our leader (Sheikh Hasina) announced a crusade against corruption."
Workers' Party of Bangladesh president Rashed Khan Menon, Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal president Sharif Nurul Ambia were, among others, present at the meeting.
BSS adds: Communications Minister Obaidul Quader Thursday said BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia and other leaders are destroying the atmosphere for dialogue by uttering provocative comments.
If the BNP chairperson wants dialogue, she should refrain from provocative comments, she should come with an open mind by creating congenial atmosphere for talks, he said. The minister made the remarks after a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Li Jun at his secretariat office.