Awami League urges US to impose visa sanctions on poll disruptors

Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader on Monday urged the United States to impose visa sanctions on those who are impeding the next general elections.

‘It is a widely circulated announcement of the US that it will impose restrictions on the people creating barriers to holding the elections and apply those. To this end, we are seeking attention to the visiting five-member US delegation, including NDI (National Democratic Institute),’ he said.

Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, made the call while speaking at a press conference held at the AL president’s Dhanmondi political office in Dhaka.

About the violation of the electoral code of conduct, he said that law enforcement agencies would take appropriate action against those who destroy

‘There is always a concern of conflict. However, the AL president will continue a zero-tolerance policy in this regard. The law enforcement agency will take

proper steps against those who will breach the election environment and get involved in conflict,’ Quader said.

He repeated that whether it was the AL candidates or independent candidates, the law enforcement agencies would take proper action against those who spoil the poll environment. ‘And we expect it on behalf of the party,’ he added.

About the claim of the Centre for Policy Dialogue that about Tk 92,000 crore was plundered from the banking sector in the 15 years, the AL general secretary said as the CPD has raised the allegation of irregularity, it should say where the money has gone.

‘If they provide details, we will bring the money back to the country,’ he added.

Responding to a question, Quader asked why the BNP would distribute leaflets against the elections.

‘Why will BNP wage a non-cooperation movement?’ he questioned, saying this program of BNP is to foil the peaceful elections.

AL presidium member lawyer Qamrul Islam, organizing secretary BM Mozammel Haque, office secretary lawyer Biplab Barua, relief and social welfare secretary Aminul Islam Amin, health affairs secretary Rokeya Sultana, deputy office secretary Sayem Khan and central working committee member Tarana Halim were, among others, present.