Staff’s campaigning causes nuisance in Birdem

Candidates in the upcoming Birdem Hospital Employee Association Election and their supporters campaigned loudly in the hospital premises today, creating a nuisance for patients and disrupting the day-to-day activities of the hospital.

The aspirants and hundreds of their supporters thronged the hospital premises, chanting slogans and playing musical instruments, our staff correspondent reported from the spot.

The campaigners were also seen blocking the hospital’s entrance and exit, which caused obstacles for ambulances and other transport carrying patients.

A CNG-run autorickshaw and an ambulance are seen stuck in the crowd as supporters of the aspirants in Birdem Employee Association Election carried out their electioneering on the hospital premises on January 29, 2020. Photo: Shaheen Mollah

Talking to The Daily Star, one aspirant who wished to remain anonymous said that the campaigns will be held every day until the election day on February 14.

Two panels of 33 member each are contesting the election.  

Supporters of aspirants in Birdem Employee Association Election are seen in this photo cheering and playing musical instruments as part of their electioneering on the hospital premises on January 29, 2020. Photo: Shaheen Mollah

When asked for his opinion in this regard, Zafar Ahmed Latif, director general and honorary professor of Birdem Hospital, said he did not know who were involved in the campaigns that were creating trouble for the patients.

“We tried to prevent the aspirants and their supporters from making noise and obstructing the entry and exit of patients, but they did not pay heed to us,” a Birdem official told this correspondent.