DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, also ruling Awami League president, on Sunday categorically said she wants peace in the country rather than premiership.

“I do not want premiership. I want peace for the people of the country. I do not bear lot of sufferings of the people,” she said.    

The premier came up with the assertion while addressing a certificate giving ceremony in National Khatib and trained Imams’ conference, and prize giving ceremony at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in the morning.

Addressing the Imams, Sheikh Hasina also said: “We want your help so that none can demean The Holy Quran anymore.”

Criticizing the arson and vandalism during opposition’s political programmes, she said: “I feel that I do not want premiership whenever I see them to burn people in the way.”

Mentioning her phone conversation with the opposition chairperson Khaleda Zia, she also said: “She (Khaleda Zia) did not withdraw the hartal and come for talks even after my invitation.”

She also sought help of the Islamic scholars of the country to reelect Awami League in the next general elections.

With state minister for Ministry of Religious Affairs M Shahjahan Mia in the chair, convener of National Khatib Council Jalal Uddin Al Quaderi and religious affairs secretary Kazi Habibul Awal also spoke.

BDST: 1715 HRS, NOV 10, 2013
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