Dhaka: National Citizen Party (NCP) Spokesperson and Chairman of its Central Election Management Committee Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan today expressed hope that all institutions concerned would act responsibly and maintain a level playing field until the end of voting. “We expect that those responsible at the local level and all institutions concerned will play a responsible role and ensure a level playing field is maintained until voting concludes tomorrow,” he said at an emergency press conference in the capital this evening.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Asif highlighted the significance of the upcoming 10 hours of voting, which he stated would determine the country’s direction for the next five, ten, and even twenty years. He specifically addressed nearly four crore young voters, urging them to cast their votes and encourage others to exercise their democratic rights.
The NCP leader commended the role of joint forces and the army in recovering illegal weapons in various areas, stating that such actions had enhanced voter confidence. He called for the recovery of any remaining illegal arms before polling day to prevent intimidation. Asif also urged the Election Commission to ensure adequate logistical support, including transport and security, for magistrates and observers to perform their duties effectively.
Asif encouraged citizens to participate in voting regardless of party preference or symbol, emphasizing that the election presented an opportunity to shape a better future for Bangladesh. He noted that after many years, citizens were witnessing a meaningful opportunity to vote, with many traveling to their constituencies with enthusiasm to exercise their franchise. He paid tribute to those who embraced martyrdom, were injured, or otherwise affected in the July uprising, acknowledging their contributions to the current electoral environment.
Expressing concern over misinformation and disinformation on social and mainstream media, Asif alleged that neutrality was not adequately maintained by officials at different levels, including returning officers, presiding officers, and certain law enforcement members. He also claimed that NCP candidates and activists faced attacks in several constituencies and that polling agents were intimidated or obstructed from entering centers.
Asif further claimed that individuals in different areas were being harassed under the guise of cash recovery drives. He clarified that carrying or keeping personal money was not a crime under election laws, but buying votes would be a clear offense. He urged the Election Commission to take action against any candidate from any party found guilty of vote-buying.
Asif Mahmud called upon voters to support the 11-party alliance, including candidates contesting under the “Shapla Kali” symbol, with the aim of establishing good governance, sovereignty, and reforms. “If elected to parliament with your votes, we pledge to work for the people over the next five years,” he said. The press conference was attended by NCP Central Election Management Committee Member Secretary Monira Sharmin, Joint Member Secretaries Faisal Mahmud Shanto, Lutfar Rahman, and Advocate Humayra Noor, among others.