Sangsad Bhaban, June 25 (UNB) - Sheikh Fazlul Karim Selim of Awami League in parliament tonight threw a challenge to leader of the opposition Begum Khaleda Zia to resign from parliament and said fresh election would be held if she resigns.

“I’m certain Khaleda will not resign for she cherished the power and perks she enjoys as the leader of the opposition,” said Selim while taking part in general discussion on the budget.

Pointing to the long boycott of parliament by Khaleda, Selim said she attended the House barely six days. He floated an idea of promoting H M Erashad of Jatiya Party to replace her as leader of the opposition in the House.

Ershad’s Jatiya Party is part and parcel of the ruling AL led grand alliance government and GM Quader of his party is a member of the cabinet.

On caretaker government issue, Selim said the system was held illegal by the Supreme Court. He invited BNP to return to the House and ventilate its views on the issue. It is no use shouting on the street and vandalizing vehicles to bring home their demand.

He was critical of the National Committee for Protection of Oil, Gas and Port. He said members of parliament are answerable to the people for their actions if they do anything against the country’s interest. “You keep on shouting on the streets. But we will explore gas, oil, coal for the interest of country and people.”

He demanded investment of untaxed money in the capital market and agriculture sector for the best use of idle money by giving 10 percent tax.

Selim opposed the proposal of tax at source on exportable goods and suggested 0.60 percent or at best 0.70 percent tax.

He said Barrister Moudud Ahmed should feel ashamed when he demands withdrawal of cases against Khaleda Zia. He said international community knows the extent of corruption of BNP and its chairperson.

The AL leader said the government would complete the trial of war criminals at any cost within its tenure.