Islami Andolon Bangladesh (IAB) has raised concerns about the electoral atmosphere, pointing out incidents of violence and extensive use of money. The senior joint secretary of IAB, Gazi Ataur Rahman, emphasized that political parties like BNP and Jamaat have not abandoned the old electoral practices during a recent press conference at their headquarters.
The party highlighted that their members have been encountering threats, coercion, and assaults in various constituencies such as Barguna 1 and 2, Patuakhali-1, Bhola 1 and 4, Pirojpur-3, Laxmipur 4, Jhalakathi-1, and other constituencies in Barishal. “At least 10 of our activists are currently hospitalized due to attacks in different areas,” Rahman stated.
Rahman mentioned specific incidents like an activist from Barguna-1 having their leg injured by BNP affiliates and attacks by Jamaat supporters in Barguna-2. He noted, “Activists from both parties are engaged in misconduct. False claims are being circulated in some regions that IAB is backing candidates from other parties.”
IAB has fielded 258 candidates nationwide, all of whom remain in the electoral race without withdrawal. “There is no possibility that any candidate has pledged support to others,” Rahman affirmed.
Additionally, IAB has received reports of significant financial expenditure by the parties on influencing voters. Rahman urged law enforcement agencies to enhance their vigilance on this matter. He emphasized that IAB advocates for a transparent, impartial, and legitimate election process and rejects any form of electoral manipulation.
