Ruling Awami League’s decision to sit with the anti-government alliance Jatyia Oikya Front, which the several cabinet members claimed ‘is taken by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.’
The decision on talks was made after Sheikh Hasina, also president of AL, discussed with several senior leaders of the party upon finishing the Cabinet meeting on Monday (Oct 29).
The AL’s decision came at a time when the 11th Parliamentary election must be held between Oct 31 this year and Jan 28 next year as per Article 123(3) of the Constitution.
Meanwhile, the House has already sat for the last session while the Election Commission said it is likely to announce the polls scheduled for the next national election by the first week of November.
People who attended Monday’s cabinet meeting told Bangla Tribune that the prime minister discussed the issue with top leaders of AL, who are also the cabinet members.
The cabinet sources said, the AL president then asked the party’s General Secretary Obaidul Quader to arrange all necessary preparation to hold the talks.
Hasina also asked Quader to contact with the alliance leaders to fix a date for the talks, the sources added.
Prime Minister also advised the party leaders to take some political issues positively.
Prior to this, the AL General Secretary informed the party president of the letters.
Early in the day, Quader told media that AL has agreed to sit with Jatiya Oikya Front for a dialogue.
Speaking at the party office after the cabinet meeting, Quader said, “Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will lead the talks on the party’s behalf.
“She does not want to close the door to dialogue.”
Date and place to hold the talks will be announced later, said Quader, who is also the road transport minister.
On Sunday, Jatyia Oikya Front sent two letters, signed by its leader Gano Forum chief Dr Kamal Hossain, addressing AL President and its secretary calling for dialogue over the next general election.

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