BNP alleges irregularities ahead of polls, urges peaceful voting

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Wednesday alleged attempts to influence the upcoming national election through illegal financial transactions, intimidation and electoral misconduct, while calling for a peaceful and credible vote.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Thursday’s parliamentary election, Spokesperson for BNP Election Steering Committee Mahdi Amin described the polls as a crucial moment for restoring democracy, sovereignty and voting rights in the country.

During the conference, Mahdi expressed confidence in what they termed the party’s “inevitable victory,” citing public support and voter turnout trends.

Mahdi raised concerns over the detention of a district-level Jamaat leader in Saidpur with a large sum of cash, questioning the source and intended use of the money amid restrictions on financial transactions ahead of the election.

He alleged that similar incidents of illegal monetary influence had occurred in other parts of the country.

Mahdi also accused rival activists of intimidation, violence and attempts to disrupt the electoral environment in several districts. It cited an attack in Bogura that left a local BNP leader seriously injured and demanded swift legal action against those responsible.

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Mahdi called on the Election Commission, returning officers and law enforcement agencies to take strict measures against any irregularities, including vote-buying, use of fake seals and impersonation during voting, stressing the importance of verifying voter identity in accordance with election rules.

Emphasising women’s dignity and participation, Mahdi also urged that religious attire not be misused for electoral fraud, while maintaining respect for religious values.

He appealed to all political groups to avoid violence and ensure a free, fair and acceptable election, calling on voters to turn out early and exercise their franchise, describing the election as a defining moment for restoring democratic rights and public ownership of the state.

Mahdi concluded by urging all institutions involved in the electoral process to uphold neutrality and safeguard the integrity of the vote.