"Our leader has explained the reasons of boycotting the polls and withdrawal of the nomination papers en masse by the candidates of the grand alliance," AL presidium member Kazi Zafarullah told the UNB last night.

The talks held when Hasina went to the US envoy's residence to offer condolence at the death of former US President Gerald R Ford.

Zafarullah said Hasina discussed with Butenis the prospect of the elections that might be held without the grand alliance.

Asked about the US envoy's views on the issue, Zafarullah said Butenis refrained from making any observation.

Syed Abul Hossain and Ziauddin were present during the talks.