Doubts Remain Over Fair Elections: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has expressed concerns over the possibility of free and fair elections in Bangladesh. He stated that agents of vested interests remain at various levels of the administration, and they may attempt to obstruct the electoral process.

Rizvi made these remarks to journalists on Sunday, 31 August, after meeting with the Election Commissioners at the Election Commission Building in Agargaon, Dhaka.

Rizvi said: “We still have doubts regarding free and fair elections. We inquired about the Commission’s preparations for the upcoming polls. There are still agents at various levels of the administration who may try to create obstacles during the election. We wanted to know how the Commission is preparing to address this.”

He added that the Election Commission has reassured that it is taking necessary measures to ensure a smooth and fair election.

“I hope the current Commission will be capable of conducting a free, fair, and participatory election,” he remarked.

Regarding the PR system, Rizvi stated:“Political parties may have differing opinions. We have raised the challenges related to the PR system at various times.”

He also mentioned discussions with the Election Commission on revising the voter rolls (RPO) and redrawing boundaries, as well as addressing voting arrangements for expatriates.

Summary of Rizvi’s Concerns and Engagement

Rizvi’s remarks underscore the BNP’s vigilance regarding electoral integrity, highlighting the need for comprehensive preparation by the Election Commission to guarantee an inclusive and transparent voting process.