Bangladesh lifts ban on indoor political meetings

DHAKA: Bangladesh's military-backed government on Sunday lifted a ban on indoor political meetings ahead of crucial talks between the country's election commission and parties on voting reforms.   

Fakhruddin Ahmed, head of the emergency government that came to power in January, made the announcement on state-run and private television and radio stations.   

"The talks with the political parties will begin on September 12 and continue until November," Ahmed said.   

"In this context, I am announcing that the government will lift the ban on indoor politics from tomorrow (Monday) to create a smooth environment for the talks," he said.   

The move comes as the leaders of the two main parties, both former prime ministers, are under arrest in corruption cases.   

The government came to power on January 11 after months of deadly protests by opposition parties over the electoral system, which led the president to cancel planned national polls.   

It has since launched a massive anti-corruption crackdown, arresting high-profile political leaders, banning political activity and pledging sweeping electoral reforms before fresh polls are held in late 2008.