Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has stated that no political party has lodged any complaints regarding the environment for the upcoming national election. The nation is progressing with all necessary preparations for a free, fair, and peaceful election amidst a conducive atmosphere, she added.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana made these remarks during an interaction with journalists from the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) at the Secretariat Media Center. When asked if the current situation is conducive to a fair and peaceful election, Rizwana Hasan explained that this issue can be viewed from multiple perspectives. Key among these is whether the Election Commission has commenced its preparatory work, which she affirmed is underway.
‘The scrutiny of nomination papers is ongoing, and candidates from various parties are closely monitoring the process with interest and enthusiasm,’ Rizwana stated. She noted that if discrepancies are found, parties are addressing them, indicating that the election process initiated by the Election Commission has already begun.
She further mentioned that the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Information are collaborating to encourage public participation in the elections. Initiatives such as Voting Caravans, yard meetings, large rallies, and village-level campaigns are being conducted to raise public awareness.
Rizwana Hasan acknowledged that while a section of people is attempting to dissuade participation by creating fear, it is crucial not to let them succeed. Although electoral violence has been witnessed in past elections in Bangladesh, she emphasized that a different kind of intimidation is being experienced this time.
She urged the media to motivate people to overcome fear and participate in the elections to establish the foundation of democracy. ‘So far, the election environment is acceptable, and political parties are participating with enthusiasm,’ she said.
Rizwana also addressed attempts to create a narrative that the law and order situation is unacceptable. She argued that this notion lacks basis and that police have been activated adequately, though additional steps may be needed to address emerging challenges.
She highlighted the importance of publicizing the referendum, emphasizing the need to inform people about the proposals and implications involved. Rizwana encouraged the media to engage positively in the campaign to inform the public.
Lastly, she mentioned that the Awami League cannot participate in the forthcoming election due to the suspension of its political activities until the trial process concludes. The BSRF President Masudul Haoque presided over the event, with General Secretary Ubaidullah Badal moderating the discussion.