Time demanded Howlader’s exit: Ershad

Jatiya Party Chairman HM Ershad has said the change in the party’s secretary general post has been made in order to pass on the torch.

He believes the move would also dispel the ‘misconception’ that he is at loggerheads with his wife, Raushon Ershad, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament.

Ershad on Thursday appointed Ziauddin Bablu the party’s secretary general, replacing Ruhul Amin Howlader.

“Howlader held the post for 14 years. He contributed much but I think we need a change in the post,” the former military dictator told reporters at his Baridhara residence on Friday.

File Photo

“A new face is needed to organise the party and that’s why the appointment has been made,” Ershad said.

The Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) has recently decided to look into Howlader’s alleged illegal wealth.

Ershad said he had considered the matter too. “He (Howlader) has been removed before the ACC probe makes him controversial,” he said.

Ziauddin Bablu was seen actively liaising between the Jatiya Party and the ruling Awami League after the Jan 5 national polls boycotted by the BNP and its allies.

At that time, the party’s Presidium Member Anisul Islam Mahmood, and Mujibul Haq Chunnu announced their decision to contest the polls under Raushon’s leadership.

Regarding that, Ershad said, “Everyone [from the Jatiya Party] went to the polls against my wishes. I’ve overlooked that.

“I alone run the party and I will continue to work with whoever stands by me,” he said.