National Citizens Party (NCP) candidate Nasiruddin Patwary has formally requested a recount of votes in the Dhaka-8 constituency, raising concerns over alleged irregularities in the 13th Parliamentary Election.
Patwary has also urged that the swearing-in of the “newly elected” candidate Mirza Abbas be postponed until a thorough review of the results is conducted.
On Sunday, Patwary’s application, submitted to Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin by NCP leader Kazi Fakhrul Islam, highlighted irregularities at 12 polling centres and listed 11 specific points of concern.
The petition called for a suspension of the Dhaka-8 election results pending a detailed investigation and demanded legal action against any officials found to have violated electoral procedures.
In the unofficial results released after the polls, Mirza Abbas secured 59,366 votes, narrowly defeating Patwary, who garnered 54,127 votes.
Patwary alleged that certain procedural lapses and administrative lapses during voting may have influenced the outcome and compromised the integrity of the election.
The NCP leader emphasised that a transparent recount is essential to ensure public confidence in the democratic process.
“We are committed to upholding democracy, but it is crucial that the results reflect the true choice of the people,” Patwary said.
Observers note that the demand for a vote recount, if accepted by the Election Commission (EC), could delay the formal assumption of office by Mirza Abbas.
The EC has not yet issued a statement regarding Patwary’s petition or the possibility of postponing the oath-taking ceremony.
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