Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman on Thursday expressed hope that the nation would witness a “good election” by the end of the day, while alleging sporadic incidents of violence and irregularities in some areas during the 13th National Parliamentary Election.
Speaking at a briefing at his main election office in Dhaka-15 after 2pm, Shafiqur emphasised the role of the armed forces in ensuring a smooth polling process.
“If the armed forces carry out their duties sincerely, we hope that by the end of the day the nation will get good voting and a good election,” he said.
He added, “A fair election will lead to the formation of a government that cares for the people and understands their struggles. But a government formed through fraud and forgery will have no bond with the citizens.”
Earlier, Shafiqur cast his vote at Monipur High School (Boys’ Section) in Mirpur’s 60 Feet area.
He described the voting atmosphere as generally normal, with noticeable voter turnout.
“Later, I visited several centres. Except for one or two, the turnout was quite satisfactory,” he said.
However, he alleged that activists and supporters of a rival candidate forcibly entered Monipur High School (Girls’ Section), which has around 26,000 voters.
“They intimidated and even physically harassed voters and our supporters,” he said. Shafiqur added that an army officer was managing the situation responsibly and assured him that it was under control.
He stressed that after polling hours, only government officials and authorised candidate agents should be allowed inside centres.
“Measures should also be taken to prevent outsiders from creating unnecessary gatherings or tension,” he said.
Shafiqur said reports from across the country indicated that in several areas, BNP supporters had caused disruptions.
He warned that disorder during vote counting could undermine the reflection of the people’s true choice.
“Considering the voter turnout so far, we remain hopeful. With time still left, there may be a good turnout,” he added at around 2:15pm.
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