Jatiya Patry's election decision depends on BNP: Ershad

HM Ershad has said whether Jatiya Party will contest in the next general elections independently hinges on the move BNP takes about the polls.

"It's not yet finalised if Jatiya Patry will go it alone in the elections. That decision depends on BNP's polls decision," the party chief told reporters at Kuakata in Patuakhali on Monday.

In 2008, Ershad’s party joined the elections as part of the 'grand alliance' led by the Awami League, but in 2014, when the BNP decided to boycott the elections, it contested separately.

The JP is now playing the role of the opposition in Parliament even though it has accepted several cabinet berths.

Ershad himself is the Special Envoy of the Prime Minister.

"The government is in an advantageous position. The election will be held in time, and it will be held under the prime minister as per the constitution," he added.

Referring to Rangpur City Corporation elections, Ershad said, "If this kind of voting takes place throughout the country (in next general elections) then this Election Commission's name will go down in history."

He arrived in Kuakata around 11am, accompanied by ABM Ruhul Amin Howlader, the MP from Patuakhali.