Dhaka:  The nationwide communication blockade in Bangladesh entered its fourth day today (Nov 23, 2006) notwithstanding the decision of controversial Chief Election Commissioner M A Aziz to step aside as demanded by opposition parties.

Moments after President Ijauddin Ahmed announced late last night that Aziz would proceed on a 90-day leave, Abdul Jalil, the 14-party opposition alliance coordinator, told reporters that his speech was 'sketchy' and smacked of toeing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's "blue-print" for the polls.

He said the alliance and other parties on the streets with similar goals would mark today as a day of 'victory' as Aziz has agreed to stand aside, but the communication blockade would continue as the election commission has to be reorganised for free polls.

Jalali, however, said political parties, including the 14-party alliance led by Sheikh Hasina Wajed, would review the situation later today and decide on the next course of action.

Ahmed had in a televised address called for an end to the standoff and concentrating on upcoming elections.

"Though the chief election commissioner was firmly determined to carry out his constitutional responsibilities, responding to our initiatives he has agreed to go on a three-month leave subject to conditions," the president said.

Elections have to be held by January 25, 2007, and its schedule is expected to be announced this month.

Police kept strict vigil on the streets of capital Dhaka, which had minimum transport except for cycle rickshaws. Schools, private offices and most banks were shut.