Campaign on in N'ganj: All except Ivy skeptical about polls fairness

All six mayoral aspirants, except the ruling Awami League-nominated candidate, expressed fear yesterday that the upcoming Narayanganj City Corporation polls might not be free and fair.

The recent elections to Upazila Parishads, municipalities and Union Parishads were marred by huge irregularities and violence but the authorities concerned did not take due actions.

That increases the possibility of illegal practices being repeated during the Narayanganj polls scheduled for December 22, the mayoral aspirants said at a meeting with an election commissioner, returning officer and members of the police and civil administration of Narayanganj at the deputy commissioner's (DC) office.    

“I don't believe a level-playing field is prevailing for all candidates,” said BNP-nominated candidate Shakhawat Hossain as reported by a correspondent from Narayanganj.

Bringing an allegation that supporters of AL's nominee Selina Hayat Ivy tore off his posters, he said election officers were not taking any action against Ivy despite such violation of electoral code of conduct.

Vigorous drives should be conducted to recover illegal arms and arrest criminals. Besides, the licensed arms should be surrendered to police. Otherwise, these arms can be used for intimidating voters, Shakhawat said.

He also demanded deployment of army to guard against misdeeds during the polls.

Biplobi Workers' Party candidate Mahbubur Rahman Ismail said people were worrying if they would be able to cast their votes.

A police officer had told him Boat [symbol of the AL] would be made the winner by any means, he alleged without mentioning the name of the police officer.

Ismail demanded that CCTV cameras be installed at each polling station.

Liberal Democratic Party candidate Kamal Prodhan also accused Ivy of violating electoral code.

Supporters of Ivy brought out a procession halting vehicular movement on a thoroughfare for two hours, which was a violation of electoral code, he explained further. 

Islami Andolan Bangladesh candidate Masum Billah said the EC must remain vigilant so that no one can influence the polls.

Islami Oikya Jote candidate Ezharul Islam demanded effective steps to check fake voting.

Bangladesh Kalyan Party candidate Rashed Ferdous asked for voters' security so that they can go to polling stations fearlessly and cast their ballots.

AL's candidate Ivy rejected the allegations brought against her and said she does not take any advantage of being the ruling party's candidate.

Expressing the hope that the elections will be fair, she urged all to accept people's verdict whatever it may be.

In response, Election Commissioner Zabed Ali said all necessary measures would be taken to ensure free and fair polls. More than 5,000 members of law enforcement agencies will be deployed.

Regarding the deployment of army, he said candidates have opposite opinions on the issue.

Zabed Ali also requested the candidates to follow electoral code during their campaigns.

In the presence of Narayanganj DC Rabbi Miah and Superintendent of Police Moinul Haque, returning officer Nuruzzaman Talukder said, “I promise that no untoward incident will happen.”