Nobody will be allowed to obstruct polls, says FM

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen on Wednesday said nobody will be allowed to create barriers to holding the national election, noting that the government is committed to arrange a “free and fair” election.

“If anyone wants to obstruct the polls, we will not allow that. Nobody can create a barrier, we will punish them,” he told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Responding to a question on Washington’s call for political dialogue, Momen said it is irrelevant what foreigners say. “We don’t pay heed to them unless it is practical and reasonable.”

He said Bangladesh Awami League is a pro-election party and will take part in the election as the party believes in election and relies on the people and their verdict. “Which embassy says what is irrelevant?”  

Momen said people are waiting for the polls eagerly but they also have problems, including price hike of essentials which the government is trying to address.

Responding to a question, the foreign minister said BNP is a big party but they should prove it through their work.

Referring to very poor results by BNP in the past elections, Momen said BNP will realise when they will come and join polls.  

Appreciating Bangladesh’s courage and confidence, the foreign minister said his party has a vision and always takes correct decisions. “We rely on people.”  

He said they do not want arson attacks and noted that BNP destroyed public properties and set 154 vehicles on fire.

“We won’t tolerate arson attacks. We have the right to protect public property and people. We will not allow killing people,” Momen said.

Responding to a question, the foreign minister said those who are criticising Bangladesh’s human rights are actually sleeping and they do not talk about brutality in Gaza.

“If they are not sleeping, they are very partisan,” he said, referring to statements on Bangladesh issues.