Dhaka: Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam today dismissed any confusion and security threats centering the upcoming general elections and the referendum, stating that a specific quarter is spreading confusion over the polls. 'The profiles of those who are spreading confusion over the polls are clear to us. Their past roles and motives are also clear,' he said, adding that with 37 days remaining before the election, the government is well prepared to hold the elections.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the press secretary made the remarks while responding to a question from a journalist at a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy this evening. Chief Adviser's Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad was present at the briefing. Regarding security measures, Shafiqul Alam mentioned that the confidence level of the security forces, including police, military, and BGB, is now stronger than before, as they have successfully managed three unprecedented large-scale events in recent times.
The events included a major funeral of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Osman Hadi, the return of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman and the massive political gathering on that day, and the state funeral of BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, which saw historic crowd numbers. Responding to another question on the security of contesting candidates in the upcoming polls slated for February 12, Shafiqul Alam stated that security agencies have been in consultation with political parties, and candidates who require security have already been provided protection, including gunmen, where necessary.
Regarding the Election Commission's transparency in hearings over appeals to get back candidature, Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad mentioned that the EC itself is maintaining transparency while the government is monitoring the process. The EC is moving forward based on documents irrespective of persons or political party affiliation, he said, adding that everyone will get justice in this regard.