Quader calls on US to impose visa sanctions on poll troublemakers

Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader has called on the United States (US) to issue visa restrictions against those creating obstacles during the election process, reports UNB.

"Those who disrupt the electoral process should be issued visa restrictions, and this is a widely broadcast announcement against them by the United States," he said.

He drew the attention of the five US representatives over the matter, including members of the National Democratic Institute (NDI), who are now in Bangladesh.

Quader was addressing a press conference at the political office of Awami League President Sheikh Hasina at Dhanmondi in the city on Monday.

If the Awami League or independent candidates get involved in conflict, action will be taken on behalf of the party, said the AL leader.

"There is always a risk of conflict. The law enforcement agencies will take appropriate action against those who pollute the election environment and get involved in clashes. The Awami League president's 'zero tolerance policy' will continue," he said.

Referring to the claim of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) that Tk 920 billion has been looted from the banking sector in the last 15 years, the Awami League general secretary said, "Since the CPD has brought allegations of irregularities, they have to say where the money is. If they provide detailed information, we will bring the money back to the country."

Replying to a question, he said, "Why would the BNP distribute leaflets against the election? Why non-cooperation? In fact, there is no peace programme against the election. This programme of the BNP is to obstruct the peaceful election."

AL Presidium Member Advocate Qamrul Islam, Organising Secretary BM Mozammel Haque, Office Secretary Barrister Biplab Barua, were present at the time, among others.