National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam has alleged that his rivals are attempting to buy votes by distributing family and farmer cards, but said the tactic is failing to gain traction among voters.
“They are using the family card and farmer card as tools to buy votes. But from what we are seeing on the ground, people are not responding much. They do not believe them anymore,” Nahid told journalists during his election campaign in Shahjadpur Banshtala, Nurerchala Bazar, Nabadhara Road and Ekta Road areas of the capital on Saturday morning.
He said voters had heard such promises before without seeing them implemented. “People have experienced these promises in the past. Just making promises is not enough. We are talking about how they will actually be implemented,” he added.
The NCP convener further alleged that an atmosphere of fear has been created in the Dhaka-11 constituency and that the election code of conduct is being violated.
“This election is about changing the fate of the people of a new Bangladesh. A referendum will also be held on the same day. We are urging people not to be afraid to vote,” he said, claiming that intimidation was evident both in his constituency and elsewhere in the country.
Nahid also accused rival candidates of openly breaching the code of conduct. “Posters are being put up in violation of the rules. Meanwhile, our banners and festoons, which comply with the code, are being torn down,” he said.
He maintained that, after 16 years, a fair electoral environment has finally been created and said the NCP is working to encourage voters to participate in a “peaceful and festive” election.
Highlighting local issues, the Shapla Kali symbol candidate said Dhaka-11 faces acute water and gas shortages. “Gas goes out in the morning and does not return all day. An application has already been submitted to WASA regarding the water crisis, and I will work to find solutions to these problems,” he said.
Nahid also vowed to crack down on drugs, extortion and land grabbing. “Drug trading is happening openly here, destroying our youth. The administration and politicians are involved. We will work to eradicate drugs from Dhaka-11,” he said, adding that extortion and land grabbing had increased across the country since August 5.
During the campaign, Nahid was accompanied by leaders and activists of the NCP, Jamaat-e-Islami and the 10-party alliance. They conducted door-to-door outreach, exchanged greetings with voters, listened to their grievances and sought support for the party.
