Free election from influence of black money

He said a democratic society is a prerequisite for the institu-tionalisation of democracy in the country.

The Democracy Fair 2005 was organised by Khan Foundation in the city to highlight democracy and relation between the people and local government.

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The LGRD minister said election must be free from the influence of black money and muscles-power to elect honest representatives in parliament.

Speaking as guest speaker, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Harry K Thomas laid emphasis on human rights and good governance for sustainable democracy.

"As a possessor of a new democracy, Bangladesh has a challenge to strengthen the institution," he said, adding that the fair would help increase people's participation in democratic institutions.

Dutch Ambassador Kees Beemsterboer and German Ambassador Dictrich Andreas were present.

Executive Director of Khan Foundation Advocate Rokhsana Khondker presided.

Funded by USAID and ARD, the fair was marked by discussions, cultural programmes and display of books.