Dhaka, March 1 -- Poet Mohon Raihan has said he will accept the Bangla Academy Literary Award following days of controversy after the government temporarily put on hold its decision to confer the award on him and later reversed that move.

Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club on Sunday, Raihan said he decided to accept the award "in the broader interest" of the country and in respect of the government's final decision.

"I know there will be debate over the decision. Even then I believe it's our duty to choose unity over division, wisdom over revenge and dignity over insult," he said.

The cultural affairs ministry earlier announced that the award would be conferred on Raihan with the approval of Prime Minister Tariqu...