President to send delegation to CEC to end standoff over elections

Dhaka, Nov 19 (UNI) Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed would send a high-powered delegation to Chief Election Commissioner Justice M A Aziz tomorrow as part of his initiative to resolve the disputes over the controversial Election Commission and its chief.

After a meeting of the Council of Advisors at the President House late tonight, Information Advisor Mahbubul Alam told reporters that the move is to find a solution of the current political crisis over the election issues.

However, the advisor refused to divulge what proposal the President's emissaries would carry to the CEC -- demanding whose removal the Awami League-led political combine prepared to enforce another spell of countrywide siege from tomorrow.

Political analysts said the delegation might try to know the mindset of Justice Aziz towards the ongoing crisis centering him.

The delegation may ask Aziz whether he has any intention to step down or stay in the office.

The Awami League led 14-party alliance is demanding removal of Aziz for being biased to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's 4-party alliance.

Under the Bangladesh Constitution, the Chief Election Commissioner cannot be sacked without specific allegation to be proved by the Supreme Judicial Council.

In reply to a question, Alam said: ''Whatever solution is reached that must be within the ambit of the Constitution.'' Pressed by reporters, he said the move is part of ''defusing the tension''.

The delegation would report back to the Council of Advisors.

The Information Advisor hinted the President might address the nation on the basis of latest developments out of their initiatives.

He could not specifically say when the President would address the nation, but indicated that it may be tomorrow or day after.

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