Dhaka: Describing the search panel members as revered persons, Jatiya Party chairman HM Ershad on Saturday hoped that they will propose the names of acceptable persons to constitute a neutral Election Commission (EC).

Speaking at a programme at his Banani office, Ershad also hoped that the new Commission will be better than the current EC.

Jatiya Party Dhaka north unit arranged the programme, marking the joining of Bagerhat BNP leader Mushfiqur Rahman to Jatiya Party.

“We hope the search committee will form such an Election Commission which will be acceptable to all,” Ershad said.

He also said a chance for Jatiya Party to return to power can be created if a neutral Election Commission is formed.

Ershad said his party’s future is very bright when BNP is losing its strong position in politics. “The BNP leader joined my party as it has the prospect. Many other people are also giving indication to join Jatiya Party.”

He also said Awami League and Jatiya Party will contest the next election as two major parties as BNP’s organisational capacity has become fragile for various reasons.

The former military dictator reaffirmed that his party will independently contest the next polls in 300 seats. “It’s my promise. Leaders of different parties across the country are also showing interests in contesting the election on my party tickets.”

Ershad said he will hold rallies in different districts to drum up public support in favour of Jatiya Party ahead of the next general election.