Next election will be held on time: Quader

Awami League (AL) general secretary Obaidul Quader Tuesday asserted that nothing could disrupt the next national election "which will be held on time as per the constitution".

"Statements issued by the BNP like the government is afraid of their movement (over rising fuel prices) are hilarious. BNP's threats to bring down the government or stall the election are empty. In fact, we all are aware of their capabilities," he told reporters at his residence on Tuesday morning, reports UNB.

On the energy crisis, the Minister of Road Transport and Bridges said that "this is no more country-centric but the entire world is facing the same". "The BNP and its allies are blaming the Bangladesh government without realising this reality."

On corruption, Quader urged the BNP leaders to cite specific instances. "We have a zero tolerance policy on corruption."

On the fare hike in view of rising fuel prices, the Minister said that transport owners and workers should respect the decision taken by the government and not charge excess fare from the public. "Else we will be forced to take legal action."

He also vowed to crack down on perpetrators of heinous crimes like rape on public transport vehicles.