BNP candidate for Thakurgaon-1 and party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Wednesday expressed hope for a fair election after 15 years of alleged vote manipulation.
“For the past 15 years, we have not been able to vote. During that time, votes were cast the night before and all taken by fascist Sheikh Hasina. Now an opportunity has come. This time, we hope there will be a fair election. Voters will be able to freely vote for whomever they wish,” he said.
Speaking at an election campaign gathering at Molani Bazar in Chilarang Union of Thakurgaon Sadar upazila, Fakhrul said that although the BNP does not have the ‘Boat’ symbol this time, their rival party, Jamaat is contesting with “Dari Palla” (Scale) symbol. “We saw the ‘Dari Palla’ in 1991. They received very few votes then, but now they are our rival,” he added.
Fakhrul urged voters to support him, promising development initiatives and restoration of peace. “Right now, the most important thing for the country is to restore peace, which is possible only by the BNP. If you elect me in the upcoming election, I will work for the development of the district,” he said.
He also targeted ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, claiming she “has lft her people behind and fled to Delhi,” and assured the Hindu community of protection. Fakhrul pledged to punish wrongdoers, provide low-cost medicines, build new hospitals, strengthen the police, and establish industries in the district.
“This is my last vote, the last election of my life. In this final vote, please support me by voting for the Sheaf of Paddy and give me the opportunity to work for you,” he said.
Leaders and activists of the BNP from different levels attended the event.
