National Citizens Party (NCP) spokesperson and election management committee chairman Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain said that while the atmosphere was somewhat tense last night, voting has been proceeding smoothly since Thursday morning. He noted that voter turnout was relatively low in the morning but added that the overall environment remained peaceful and controlled, with most polling centres operating without disruption, except for a few isolated incidents.
Speaking to reporters after casting his vote at the Government Laboratory High School polling centre in Dhaka during the 13th national parliamentary election and referendum, Asif Mahmud said: “I was registered to vote in the last two elections but couldn’t cast my ballot. This is my first time voting. For nearly 40 million young voters like me, this is a new experience. I hope that the enthusiasm and energy of people across the country is reflected in a smooth election process.”
On the referendum, he accused the BNP of hypocrisy, claiming that the party promoted a “No” stance at the grassroots level despite senior leaders publicly supporting “Yes.” He, however, said this would not affect the outcome.
Expressing concern over law and order, Asif Mahmud said that in some centres, their party’s polling agents faced attacks at their homes. “It is unfortunate if the administration does not respond appropriately during such critical times,” he said.
He emphasized that it is the administration’s responsibility to ensure that no citizen is deprived of their voting rights and that everyone can cast their vote safely and return home securely.