Dhaka, Dec. 6 -- Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman has claimed that those who demanded elections are now "speaking differently", reflecting a shift in their stance.

He said some parties initially opposed holding a referendum but later "pressured the government" to organise it on the same day as the national election.

On Saturday at Alia Madrasa ground in Sylhet, Shafiqur said without naming any party: "Those who kept urging the public for elections are now speaking in another tone. This is not a good sign.

"Perhaps they realise that the people are ready to show them a red card for their past actions," he added.

The BNP called for quick completion of state reforms and early elections after the July Uprising toppled the Awami League...