Even the EU and the US want lifting of the emergency quickly so that political activities can be started and election can be held on time, i.e by the end of 2008. We are unhappy to note that the CTG has failed to realize the importance of allowing political activities at this stage.

Even military dictators like Zia and Ershad had to go for establishing political parties (strictly speaking, factions) only to save themselves from the pressure of defunct political parties.

Zia was so desperate that he had to compromise with people strongly opposed to independence of Bangladesh, though he was a valiant freedom fighter. Ershad did a little better, though he copied the party manifesto of BNP.

He established BJP by weakening the major parties like BNP and AL. He offered various temptations to some senior politicians. Many of such politicians responded positively to his offer. Even some left-leaning parties joined him.

Zia used to say that he would make politics tough in Bangladesh. His inadequate understanding of politics cost him his life. Ershad understood politics much better than many military dictators of the world.

Thus, he has been able to not only keep himself alive, but also to attract both the major parties, i.e, BNP and AL. It is learnt that for the sake of keeping the party intact he would relinquish the position of chairman. In fact, he has suggested that Barrister Anisul Islam Mahmud be the acting chairman of BJP.

BNP is in serious trouble. Some of its prominent leaders have already left the party. These leaders are about to set up at least two parties, one led by Dr. Buddrozdoza and the other by Col.(Rtd) Oli Ahmed. Another party to be constituted by a BNP defector (Mr Qureshi) may apply for registration soon. If no compromise can be reached between the Khaleda and Mannan groups, there may be another couple of parties.

Things appear to be a little better in the AL camp. However, it is almost certain that Sheikh Hasina will face strong challenge from the reformists for the first time. Only the council meeting can decide the reform issues.

Though we do not hear much about the activities of JI, it can be assumed that because of BNP's disaster and the gradual revelation of the activities of the militants in the Islami camp, JI will not be able to attain prominence in the next election.

We are not very enthusiastic about the formation of new political parties (3 to 4) because we know that the voters are divided mainly into two camps, BNP and AL. Without the support of these two parties, it can be assumed that the new parties may not play a significant role in the election.

As we are given to understand, two advisers are opposed to early lifting of the ban on politics because of their apprehension that the law and order situation might deteriorate. They, however, are not opposed to council meetings of the parties.

Strangely enough, council meetings are major activities for political parties. Furthermore, the EC is ready to hold formal or informal meetings with political parties. So far, the response from the parties has been negative.

Nothing short of free political discussions can solve the various problems relating to reform. Let us show the CTG that Bangladeshis are politically highly conscious, and freedom loving.

We hope that our CTG, which has attained so much in such a short time, will not disappoint us in fulfilling our aspiration for a free, fair and credible election.

Let the CTG and EC be more specific about the time for starting of political activities. There is no scope for controlled democracy in Bangladesh. Our people are different from the people of Myanmar or Pakistan. Things must not be allowed to go out of the control of the CTG due to dilly-dallying.

The writer is a former joint secretary.