Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami today urged the Election Commission (EC) to take visible and firm measures to ensure strict enforcement of the electoral Code of Conduct and guarantee a secure, fear-free environment ahead of the upcoming 13th national parliamentary elections. The party raised concerns over widespread violations of election rules and deteriorating law and order during a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners at the EC Secretariat in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Jamaat’s Assistant Secretary General Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair expressed serious concerns about the electoral Code of Conduct and overall security situation surrounding the election. Zubair, who attended the meeting with a three-member Jamaat delegation, emphasized violations of the Code of Conduct since the election schedule announcement on December 11.
Zubair highlighted Jamaat’s compliance with the electoral rules by promptly removing campaign materials within 48 hours of the schedule announcement. He noted that large-scale violations of the Code of Conduct were still occurring nationwide, urging immediate action to ensure a level playing field.
On security, Jamaat demanded the installation of CCTV cameras in all polling centers to prevent electoral violence and intimidation. Zubair stressed that CCTV coverage would reassure voters of a safe environment to cast their ballots. The EC reportedly informed the delegation of ongoing discussions about CCTV implementation, which Jamaat plans to monitor closely.
The party also raised concerns about the overall law and order situation, calling for the recovery of illegal arms and the arrest of known criminals. Zubair referred to the recent killing of Osman Hadi, a Dhaka-8 candidate, and other violent incidents, highlighting the need for visible action by law enforcement to restore public confidence.
Jamaat sought equal security arrangements for all political leaders during campaigns, criticizing selective VIP facilities. The delegation also discussed expatriate voting, expressing concern over slow voter registration due to technical issues, and urged the EC to address these problems.
Additionally, Jamaat raised issues about social media violations of the Code of Conduct, including attacks and misinformation. The commission reportedly took note of these concerns and assured steps would be taken to monitor and address online violations.
Expressing hope, Zubair stated that Jamaat expects the Election Commission to take timely and effective measures to ensure a credible election.