At their first meeting with President and Chief Adviser Iajuddin Ahmed at Bangabhaban yesterday, they expressed optimism about gaining people's confidence as advisers in the interim government.

The president urged them to keep in mind all the matters needed to hold a free and fair election.

"We think it is our national responsibility and hope everybody will come to save the country's democracy," adviser Dr Akbar Ali Khan told newsmen.

Adviser Lt Gen (rtd) Hasan Mashud Chowdhury urged the reporters to 'see' activities of the caretaker government advisers.

Advisers CM Shafi Sami and Dhiraj Kumar Nath expressed hope to gain confidence of all while Adviser Mahbubul Alam emphasised on working speedily in consultation with all.

"There is no reason for not being able to hold a free and fair election if we get cooperation from all," Adviser Yasmin Murshed said while Adviser Sufia Rahman said they will do everything needed to hold a free and election.