In a statement, on the eve of the 14-party-led grand alliance-sponsored three-day blockade across the country, he said nobody can impede the constitutional provision for holding the general election.

"I'm committed to handing over power to an elected government through holding election in time. I seek cooperation from all in protecting the constitution."

Referring to the Election Commission (EC) announcement for holding the election on January 22, the president noted that the EC had already taken all measures for holding the election.

"My government has ordered the law enforcers to take stern measures so that no quarter can disturb law and order in a planned way to thwart the upcoming elections," the president said.

He said steps have been taken for the people who will choose their candidates by casting their vote fearlessly.

The government firmly believes that the January 22 election will be held in a "free, fair and impartial manner", the president said.

Dwelling on the standoff over the polls, the president/ chief adviser pushed the ball to next government's court as he said the elected government would have the scope for resolving the prevailing political crisis in accordance with the constitution.

Regarding the constitutional bindings for holding election within the stipulated 90 days, he cited the valedictory speech of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina on April 12, 2001 in parliament.

He quoted Sheikh Hasina as saying, '... our sacred constitution says in any situation whatsoever, the election must be held within 90 days after the parliament is dissolved. In case of by-election, the polls can be deferred or advanced beyond 90 days for reasons of an act of God'.

Iajuddin Ahmed in his lengthy statement explained the situation he has been facing in dealing with the Awami League-led 14-party alliance's grievances and demands.

"I all along have tried to bring all political parties in the election process. But if any political party feels it's a right to withdraw from the race at the eleventh hour of the election process, nothing can be said," he said.

"Being a teacher, I always discharged my responsibility impartially. I had to ignore other parties in accommodating the demands of the agitating parties during the tenure of the caretaker government. Despite that question of my impartiality has been raised with a motive," he added.

Regretting the "sudden" withdrawal of the nomination papers by the grand alliance on the last day, the president said this announcement has led to a new crisis, which made him stupefied as well as disappointed although they (grand alliance) had come to the election after "accepting everything".

About the task of the EC, President Iajuddin said since the Election Commission is an independent constitutional institution, the government cannot interfere in its function.

"The EC has nothing to do except for holding the polls after the nomination-withdrawal stage is over," he noted.

He said those already declared MP-elect unopposed by this time have the scope for taking shelter of court.

"At this stage of the election process, according to the constitution, there is no scope for sending reference to the court," the caretaker government chief categorically said to seal such an option suggested by many.