'Only reforms in CG, EC not enough for free, fair polls'

The country's problems can be resolved through ensuring democratic governance at all stages of the government, semi-government and non-government sectors, they said.

A faction of the Workers Party of Bangladesh (WPB) organised the discussion on 'Ineffectiveness of existing caretaker government and election commission and the crisis of present governance' in the city.

The speakers said the crisis over election has emerged as the leading political parties, particularly the Awami League and BNP, do not pursue positive politics.

Prof Abul Kashem Fazlul Haque said both the AL and BNP are busy with protecting their own interest; they do not think of the welfare of the countrymen.

"We still did not get political freedom although over three decades have passed after independence," he said.

Five-party leader Tipu Biswas said the left-leaning parties should unite to safeguard the country from the clutches of the two major parties.

Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal leader Khalequzzaman Bhuiyan said the country needs efficient leadership to save the nation from the grip of imperialists.

Kandakar Ali, president of the WPB faction, presided over the discussion.