Govt has no role in bus requisition for NCP event, says press secretary

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has claimed that the interim government has no interference in the matter of providing bus “requisition” by the Pirojpur deputy commissioner for the launch of the National Citizen Party, or NCP, in Dhaka.

The NCP formally made its debut on Friday by holding a rally at the capital’s Manik Mia Avenue. A string of “criticism” is under way on social media alleging that a number of buses were arranged “by the government” for the party's supporters from Pirojpur.

Responding to a question on the matter at a media briefing at the capital’s Foreign Service Academy on Saturday, the press secretary said quoting the Pirojpur DC: “The Anti-discrimination Student Movement and the National Citizens’ Committee sent applications to the DC for requisition of several buses.

 “There they sought help to transport two families of those injured and killed in the July-August uprising. In response to that request and some demand, the DC helped in 'requisitioning' five buses.

 “The official claimed no fuel cost of the buses was paid by the DC office and the government had no involvement in the incident.

At the same time, the press secretary asked officials to investigate whether such an incident took place anywhere else.

Shafiqul said, "The government is creating a level-playing field for all political parties. It is ‘our’ duty to ensure that all political parties participate in free, fair, and inclusive elections. ‘Our’ position is the same for all parties. Most of the information in this regard is exaggerated."

The question of the BNP's demand for an election roadmap within this month also came up at the event.

The press secretary then said, "The election roadmap, however, has been given. The BNP probably wants a specific date.

"The government has repeatedly said that the elections are likely in December if the political parties want fewer reforms. And if they want polls after more reforms, it may be delayed by another three months. Because the nor'wester and the rainy season commence in April. This is not the right time for elections."

The meeting of political parties with the National Consensus Commission will start soon for the reform, Shafiqul added.