Despite increasing pressure from international circles, the ruling circle will take a tough stance in the political arena. Several leaders at the policy making level of the Awami League have said that four months after the announcement of the US visa policy, its implementation has started. These steps of America have increased the pressure on the government. The government will have to be extra cautious to ensure that this does not demoralize the administration and law enforcement. But the Awami League feels that as a result of being in power for 15 consecutive years, they have strong support in the administration and other sectors. He believes that this support will not diminish so easily and is a major strength for the Awami League government.
Awami League’s central leader Arafat, while talking to Prothom Alo, said that this is not a matter of pressure. After all, the government is moving towards free and fair elections.
But the condition of the economy has put pressure on the government. Prices of essential commodities have increased. The media is full of reports of irregularities in the financial sector including banks. People are angry with this situation. Many leaders of AL do not deny this. Some of them feel that the economic situation has hit the government hard and the ruling party is trying to take advantage of this too.
Meanwhile, although AL leaders feel that the BNP agitation has not been able to put pressure on them so far, they also say that the BNP will do everything possible to sabotage the elections for the sake of its survival. If elections are not held then a constitutional crisis will arise. This will put the government in a difficult situation. Top leaders of AL are discussing these matters.
Given the pressure from various quarters and the reality of the situation, the government has no option but to hold elections. That is why they are talking about dealing with the BNP movement politically and administratively in October. The party has already announced that they will hold political programs every day till the election schedule is announced and will protect the government. Party leaders are now saying that whatever program BNP organizes in October, they will bring a counter program on the same day and at the same time. If the opposition programs are not peaceful then Awami League and its allied organizations will oppose them.
Awami League leaders feel that they will have to conduct elections at any cost. They will seek advice from any party or group regarding free and fair elections under the Sheikh Hasina government. But they will maintain a strong stance against any activity against the elections.
*This report appeared in the print and online editions of Prothom Alo and has been rewritten for the English version by Ayesha Kabir.