Sylhet BNP alleges misuse of religion, vote-buying

Sylhet district and metropolitan BNP have levelled allegations of propaganda, intimidation, and vote-buying. Leaders made these allegations at a press conference held at the main election office of Sylhet-1 constituency candidate Khondaker Abdul Moqtadir on Saturday afternoon. Prior to this, party leaders had lodged a verbal complaint with the District Commissioner on Friday night.

The written statement at the press conference was read by acting President of metropolitan BNP, Rezaul Hasan Qayes Lodi. Questions from journalists were answered by district BNP President and Coordinator of parliamentary constituencies, Abdul Qaiyum Chowdhury.

Pointing towards Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP leaders alleged that a political group, anticipating certain defeat, is conducting planned propaganda against BNP candidates. They also accused them of using religion to solicit votes, using children and adolescents in election campaigns, preparing to occupy polling centres, and buying votes through cash distribution.

It was stated at the press conference that minority voters are being intimidated, and unusual movement of outsiders is being observed in several constituencies. Additionally, expressing concern over incidents of illegal ballots, seals, and ink recovery, the leaders said supporters of rival candidates are illegally collecting and distributing the Election Commission's confidential photo voter lists, which violates electoral laws and breaches voter confidentiality. The leaders demanded immediate cessation of these irregularities, strict action against those involved, and ensuring a free, fair, and impartial election.

Regarding this, Rezaul Hasan Lodi Qayes informed Samakal that Sylhet BNP will submit a written complaint to the Election Commission, stating that photo voter lists cannot in any way end up in the hands of party activists. "Our banners have been taken down, yet Jamaat's banners remain. We have informed the District Returning Officer. He has assured us of taking measures."

Present at the press conference were metropolitan BNP General Secretary Emdad Hossain Chowdhury, Joint Secretary Siddiqur Rahman Paplu, BNP leader Nazibur Rahman, Volunteer Dal's district convener Abdul Ahad Khan Jamal, among others.