JSD not to join dialogue on EC formation

Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD), led by ASM Abdur Rob, has decided not to take part in the ongoing dialogue on the reconstitution of the Election Commission (EC) at Bangabhaban.

Party president ASM Abdur Rob came up with the announcement at a press conference at his Uttara residence on Friday.

“The formation of the Election Commission is not a solution for a free and fair election. Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal is not going to participate in the dialogue for practical reasons,” he said.

He said their party also thinks the current dialogue is not conducive to protecting the dignity of the President.

Rob said the dialogue should be held on the process of formation of a 'national government', not on the election commission, for arranging a neutral election and establishing the rule of law in the country.

As the present government does not represent the spirit and determination of the constitution, he said, it has started filing new cases against the leaders and activists who are on a movement demanding a free and fair election and arresting them again in old cases. “So, the formation of the Election Commission alone is not a guarantee for a neutral election.”

JSD (Rob) was scheduled to join talks with President Abdul Hamid at Bangabhaban on Monday.