"Time is running out fast. When we will hand over power to caretaker government whose main task will be to hold the elections...It will not be possible for them to implement the reform proposals," he said.

"So reform will have to be implemented during the tenure of this government and it will have to be done through discussion," Bhuiyan said at a discussion marking the death anniversary of president Ziaur Rahman at National Art Gallery in the city.

Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) organised it on the occasion of the three-day photo exhibition to mark the 25th death anniversary of president Zia. The exhibition contains some 'rare' pictures of Zia photographed by photojournalist Aftab Ahmad.

Criticising the opposition for dilly-dallying to join the dialogue on their reform proposals, Bhuiyan said, "As they (opposition) are not coming to dialogue, doesn't that mean they do not want any solution? It appears that they want to impede the election process."

He urged the opposition to come to the dialogue putting aside all excuses for resolving the problems.

About the agitation by garment workers, the LGRD minister urged the opposition to cooperate with the government to save the industry and the economy of the country.

He said the government will take actions against those who are conspiring to destroy the garment industry. "We will take all steps to protect the country's industries."