DHAKA, Nov 19, 2023 (BSS)-Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today said there is no scope to defer the date of the next general election as schedule has been announced by the Election Commission.

"Certainly it (the election date) will not be deferred. Election will be held timely," he said while replying a query of a report at foreign ministry here.

The foreign minister said enthusiasm is seen everywhere after the announcement of polls schedule and the people of the country are waiting for the general elections.
“We are committed to hold a free and fair election … we do believe in democracy … and we do believe the election is the only tool to change the government,” he said.

The Foreign Minister said BNP is most welcome to join the polls as the Election Commission (EC) is not creating any barriers.

But, he said, BNP’s activities show that how a political party born inside Cantonment loses its credibility.

He speculated that many leaders and supporters of BNP may leave the party and join with other political parties if BNP does not join the polls.

He said the government would not allow anyone to ruin the election and not let anyone to vandalize and torch public property.

"These (vandalism) are not acceptable. They (BNP) should seek apology to the people." he added.
 
Earlier, the foreign minister held meeting with the visiting Cross-Party Delegation of the Scottish Parliament at his office.

Scottish Labour party leader Foysol Choudhury led the three-member delegation also comprised with Miles Briggs of Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party and Evelyn Tweed of Scottish National Party.