EC Aziz sent on three-month leave to rid nation of crisis over pol

Dhaka, Nov 22 (UNI) Bangladesh President and Chief Adviser of caretaker government Prof Iajuddin Ahmed today announced that Chief Election Commissioner Justice Aziz agreed to go on leave for three months to keep aloof from the election process.

''This should end the political standoff,'' he said in an address to the nation over radio and TV network.

The President said he has decided to appoint two more election commissioners under article 118(1) of the Constitution.

''I believe the initiative taken by the government to resolve the political unrest has been successful.'' The President hoped that there is no alternative for political parties and the people, but to move forward with the election.

''I believe the people of the country will evaluate that an atmosphere is created for fair election through reforming the election Commission,'' he added.

The President appealed to the political parties and the people to contact the election commission if they have any complaint or advice regarding election as per rules. ''I hope all concerned will start electioneering without delay.'' The President said '' We will have to keep national interest above all else. We will have to be alert in carrying out the national responsibility so that personal and party interests cannot outweigh country's interest.'' He also urged the government officials to play their respective part. ''I firmly hope the people of the country and all concerned will extend their sincere cooperation in holding the election freely and fairly within the scheduled time and handing over power to an elected government.'' He said that with concerted and tireless efforts of the people involved in the election process, they would be able to hold a fair and acceptable election.

''Maintenance of law and order is precondition to holding free and fair elections,'' he said and ordered the concerned officials to maintain it and asked them to carry out their responsibilities neutrally by rising above fear and intimidation.

The President said law-enforcing agencies should take utmost care that innocent people are not subjected to harassment.

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