Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said that she is willing to take all possible steps to protect democracy if a consensus can be reached with the BNP-led alliance.
President Md Abdul Hamid swore in the 49-member Cabinet headed by Sheikh Hasina at the Bangabhaban on Sunday afternoon.
The three times Prime Minister had earlier committed to hold a mid-term election if a consensus is reached through a dialogue with the BNP.
But on Sunday, she insisted they will have to behave and stop violence and disruption at all cost.
“The obstacle they had created in people’s lives and livelihoods, have to stop. Only then comes the issue of consensus,” she said when the press drew her attention on her previous statement.
“All possible steps will be taken to protect democracy, if a consensus can be reached,” added Hasina.
Asked whether they were facing any pressure from the international community, a firm Hasina replied: “Sheikh Hasina never bows down to any kind of national or international pressure.”
She said that the BNP chief is now realising her ‘mistake’ by not taking part in the election.
“I do not know who advises them. But now she realises her mistake.”
Hasina said that she hoped the BNP would finally join the polls.
“It’s regrettable that they have not done their duty to strengthen the base of democracy. If they had participated, the base of democracy would have been stronger.”
She thanked the voters for electing her party once again and condemned the post-poll attacks in different parts of the country.
Hasina said that the government is helping out the victims of the attack.-bdnews24.com
