Bangla poll preparations moving well: Fakhruddin

New York, Sep 25: The next general election in Bangladesh could be held prior to the December 2008 deadline if the Election Commission (EC) completes all process according to its road map, Chief Adviser to the caretaker government Fakhruddin Ahmed has said.

Talking to US Congressman Joseph Crowley in New York on Sunday, Dr Fakhruddin said the government would be able to complete preparation of photographic electoral rolls before the deadline, the Daily Star reported.

He also informed Mr Crowley that the electoral process would start from next January and institutional reforms aimed at holding a free and fair election would be carried out. This would go a long way in strenghening democratic values in the country, he added.

Mr Crowley, co-chair of Bangladesh Caucus in the US Congress, appreciated the Bangladesh government's efforts.

They also discussed different socio- political issues in Bangladesh, including corruption, reform measures and power situation.

The Chief Adviser was in New York to attend the 62nd UN General Assembly.

UNI