No level playing field, fair election not possible: Jamaat

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has claimed that there is no equal opportunity or level playing field for all political parties in the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election.

The party said it is not possible to organise a free, fair and acceptable election under the current circumstances.

The remarks were made at an important meeting of the party’s National Election Steering Committee held at its central office in Mogbazar, Dhaka, on Friday evening, November 9. The meeting was chaired by committee president Maulana ATM Masum.

Several sub-committees were formed during the meeting to further streamline and strengthen election-related activities. Specific responsibilities were assigned, and it was decided to include several new members to enhance the committee’s capacity. The meeting was conducted by committee member secretary Maulana Abdul Halim.

Deep concern was expressed over the country’s current security situation. Speakers said the nation has yet to see justice for the killing of Osman Hadi, convener of Inkilab Mancha. They alleged that there has been no visible progress in eliminating terrorism, while incidents of killing continue to occur.

The meeting also noted a lack of significant success by law enforcement agencies in recovering illegal weapons at the field level.

Jamaat leaders alleged that recent developments indicate the administration is leaning towards a particular side, which they described as a major obstacle to holding a neutral election.

They demanded the immediate arrest of identified criminals and firm, impartial action to recover illegal weapons to ensure a free and fair election.

Members of the central election steering committee, including Maulana AFM Abdus Sattar, were present at the meeting.