Jamaat alliance candidate for the Dhaka-11 constituency and convener of Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP), on Sunday claimed that a level playing field has not yet been established for the upcoming national election. While campaigning at several locations in the Badda and Satarkul areas in the morning, Nahid alleged that activists of the Jamaat alliance are facing intimidation in the run-up to the polls.
He said that although overt barriers to campaigning are not visible, an atmosphere of fear is being created to discourage voters from turning up at polling centres. According to Nahid, such tactics are intended to suppress voter participation but will ultimately fail. He also criticised the Election Commission, accusing it of showing bias against the Jamaat alliance. He claimed that he had received a show-cause notice for campaigning in favour of a referendum, while similar actions by others in support of their parties went unaddressed.
Referring to broader law and order concerns, Nahid said the forthcoming election would signal the end of extortion, terrorism and land grabbing.
He argued that despite public expectations, some of these activities have continued in certain areas and asserted that election day on February 12 would mark the final chapter for such practices.
Addressing local issues, Nahid promised voters that he would work to resolve longstanding problems in the constituency if elected.
He described the election as more than a routine transfer of power, calling it an opportunity to reshape the country’s political landscape and build what he termed a new Bangladesh.
He urged voters to exercise their franchise freely and responsibly, stressing that the outcome of the election would have long-term implications for the nation.
Nahid also appealed to residents not to be swayed by money, inducements or misleading assurances, and instead to vote for candidates they believe are capable of delivering genuine change.
During his campaign, Nahid asked voters to support him by voting for the Shapla Kali symbol and to cast a Yes vote in the referendum.
PT/ra
