Defeated forces might try to obstruct polls: Rizwana Hasan

Information Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today (3 December) said defeated forces may attempt to create obstacles ahead of the election. Yet, those challenges must be overcome to ensure a free and fair poll.

She made the remarks while responding to journalists after inaugurating a training programme on election-time journalism organised by the Press Institute of Bangladesh (PIB) at the Sylhet Press Club.

Rizwana Hasan said some level of political tension is common during elections, but the interim government remains optimistic about overcoming such challenges.

"The government has started working to address these issues," she said.

When asked on attacks on media outlets and mob violence, she remarked that defeated forces are creating fear.

"Since such forces were resisted through the mass uprising, the government will be able to tackle the remaining challenges as well," she added.

Earlier, while inaugurating the programme, the adviser said the interim government wants not only a fair election but also a referendum and candidate selection with broad public participation.

PIB Director General Faruk Wasif, Information Secretary Mahbuba Farjana and leaders of the press club also spoke at the event.

Fifty journalists from print and electronic media are scheduled to participate in the two-day training workshop.