BNP-backed candidates in Khagrachhari sadar and Matiranga municipalities are apprehending that the upcoming municipality election would not be held in free and fair manner as the ruling party Awami League men are reportedly trying to manipulate the election.
The two candidates also urged the district administration to play impartial role in ensuring a free and fair election.
Giving example of previous general election and upazila election, both BNP candidates said they were in doubt whether the upcoming municipality election would be free, fair and credible or not. In a separate statements, they expressed their concern to journalists yesterday.
Talking to journalists at election campaign office located in Court road area BNP-backed candidate Advocate Malek Mintu said his party men were facing various obstacles during campaign.
He said the ruling party men assaulted their supporters and prevernted them from bringing out election procession.
He said: “Today [yesterday] some supporters of Awami League backed candidate assaulted our activists at Shalbon area of the district town.
“I have informed the matters to authorities concerned, but I have not seen any action yet from their end,” said Abdul Malek, adding that the ruling party men also threatened his supporters to stop campaign immediately.
“This is a message for us that the ruling party men will try to manipulate election.”
BNP-backed candidate of Matiranga municipality Md Badsha Mia echoed the same words. He said they were facing troubles in every stage.
He also raised question over the role of district administration in this regard.
“I am urging administration to play a neutral role in holding a free, fair and credible election which will ensure smooth practice of democracy in the country.”
Khagrachhari Municipality Returning Officer and Additional Deputy Commissioner ATM Kousar Hossain admitted that some candidates verbally complained against their rival candidates.
“I am investigating the matter. The administration would take actions if the allegations are found true.”
Matiranga Municipality Returning Officer and District Election Officer Md Nurul Alam admitted that he was also getting some allegations and taking actions as per procedure.
“I am trying my level best to ensure free, fair and credible election,” Nurul Alam added.
District Awami League General Secretary Md Jahedul Alam denied the allegation of BNP. He said BNP candidates were spreading propaganda as they were in fear of defeat in the coming municipality election.
