Dhaka: Adviser of the Information and Broadcasting ministry Syeda Rizwana Hasan today announced that the government is fully prepared to hold the upcoming national election. “We are committed and ready to hold the upcoming national election on time and will not allow violence or intimidation to derail the democratic process,” the adviser stated during the inauguration of the Voter Gari Campaign at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad this afternoon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana Hasan assured citizens that the election process is progressing as planned. She emphasized the presence of the Election Commission and confirmed that the election has been announced for February 12, with all symbols finalized. The government has taken full preparations to tackle the usual challenges associated with elections.
She addressed recent untoward incidents, stating that such acts were intended to spread fear among people and push the election towards uncertainty. These acts aim to discourage people from voting, but the government is enhancing its preparation to address these extra challenges.
Explaining the objective of the Voter Gari (Super Caravan) initiative, Rizwana Hasan said these vote vehicles symbolize the government’s commitment to the election. She highlighted that people are eager to vote and political parties support the election process. The government plans to respond to all challenges with stronger coordination.
Addressing recent attacks on the media, she asserted that no one involved in such incidents will be spared and that such acts will not be tolerated. Rizwana Hasan emphasized that democracy allows counter-narratives but not intimidation, arson, or violence. Legal actions are underway against online incitement for creating mob violence both inside and outside the country, with concerned ministries already initiating steps.
She concluded by mentioning the preparedness for the election, stating, “We will raise the level of vigilance and preparedness to protect democracy and the institutions that uphold it.”
Earlier, the adviser, alongside the adviser to the ministry of Cultural Affairs Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Secretariat Akhtar Ahmed, and Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam, officially launched the campaign by cutting the ribbon.