President stresses political consensus for fair polls

President Abdul Hamid underlined on Monday the importance of a consensus among political parties to hold fair elections in the country, report agencies.

The President made the remarks during a meeting with a 16-member delegation of Jatiya Party (JP), led by its Chairman Anwar Hossain Manju, at the Darbar Hall of Bangabhaban.

President's Press Secretary Joynal Abedin briefed reporters after the meeting.

During the 45-minute meeting, Hamid underlined the need for developing a culture of mutual tolerance among political parties to maintain a democratic atmosphere in the country.

The JP delegation proposed appointing election commissioners in phases to maintain the continuity of the Election Commission (EC).

They said the only formation of a strong commission is not enough for holding a fair and acceptable election as a consensus among political parties is essential in this regard.

The party also proposed appointing polling officials from outside the respective constituencies during any general election to make it free and neutral.

Secretaries concerned to the President's Office were present.

The President initiated the formal talks with political parties about the EC formation with holding discussions with BNP on December 18 last.

He took the dialogue initiative as the tenure of the current Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad-led EC expires in February.