Nahid Islam says public will ensure fair voting in February polls

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has said that voters themselves will safeguard polling centres during the February 12 general election to ensure the victory of what he described as true representatives of the people.

Speaking at a roadside rally in Dhaka on Friday, Nahid Islam said attempts were being made by certain quarters to spread fear and confusion after witnessing growing public support, but such efforts would fail.

“Any attempt to intimidate voters or capture polling centres will not succeed, as people will guard the voting process themselves,” he said while campaigning in the Bhatar Thana area of the capital.

Earlier in the morning, Nahid Islam conducted a door-to-door campaign in Bhatar from 7:30 am to 9:00 am, seeking votes for the NCP’s election symbol, Shaplakoli. He later addressed a gathering on Bashtola Road near Bhatar Thana, attended by leaders and activists of the NCP, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and other partners of the 10-party alliance.

A campaign procession was also brought out from Bashtola towards Rampura Bridge. Nahid Islam said campaign activities would continue later in the day in Rampura North and South.

The Dhaka-11 constituency includes parts of Rampura, Badda, Bhatar and Hatirjheel.

The NCP convener said his party stood firmly against dynastic politics, discrimination and corruption, and was committed to establishing justice, good governance and genuine democracy in the country.

He urged party leaders and activists to intensify door-to-door campaigning to gain public trust and ensure high voter turnout on polling day. He also called on voters to cast ballots in favour of the upcoming referendum.

Referring to the February 12 election, Nahid Islam said it represented more than a change of power, describing it as an opportunity to establish a new political order following years of authoritarian rule.

He said the sacrifices made by students, workers and ordinary citizens during the mass uprising were aimed at restoring democracy, equality and national sovereignty.

Nahid Islam also pointed to long-standing problems in the Dhaka-11 constituency, including extortion, crime, traffic congestion and shortages of gas and electricity, and pledged to take effective steps to address these issues if elected.

Expressing optimism about the polls, he said the 10-party alliance would secure parliamentary representation and play a significant role in governing the country.