BSS
  11 Feb 2026, 22:52

All institutions must maintain a level playing field until voting ends: Asif Mahmud

DHAKA, Feb 11, 2026 (BSS) - National Citizen Party (NCP) Spokesperson and Chairman of its Central Election Management Committee Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan today expressed hope that all institutions concerned would act responsibly and maintain a level playing field until the end of voting.

"We expect that those responsible at the local level and all institutions concerned will play a responsible role and ensure a level playing field is maintained until voting concludes tomorrow," he said at an emergency press conference in the capital this evening.

Asif said the upcoming 10 hours of voting would determine the country's direction for the next five, ten and even twenty years. Addressing nearly four crore young voters in particular, he urged them to cast their votes and encourage others to exercise their democratic rights.

The NCP leader praised the role of joint forces and the army in recovering illegal weapons in various areas, saying such steps had boosted voter confidence. He called for the recovery of any remaining illegal arms before polling day to prevent intimidation.

He also urged the Election Commission to ensure adequate logistical support, including transport and security, for magistrates and observers so that they could perform their duties effectively.

Calling on citizens to participate in voting regardless of party preference or symbol, Asif said the election presented an opportunity to shape a better future for Bangladesh. He encouraged voters to go to polling centres and exercise their democratic right peacefully.

Referring to the broader political context, Asif noted that after many years, citizens were once again witnessing a meaningful opportunity to vote. He said that in recent days many people had travelled to their constituencies with enthusiasm to exercise their franchise. He paid tribute to those who embraced martyrdom, injured or otherwise affected in the July uprising, saying their sacrifices contributed to the current electoral environment.

At the same time, the NCP spokesperson expressed concern over misinformation and disinformation circulating on social and mainstream media. He alleged that in some cases neutrality was not adequately maintained by officials at different levels, including returning officers, presiding officers and certain members of law enforcement agencies.

He also alleged that in several constituencies candidates and activists of his party faced attacks and that some polling agents were intimidated or obstructed from entering centres.

Asif further claimed that in the name of cash recovery drives, individuals in different areas were being harassed. He said carrying or keeping personal money was not a crime under election laws, but attempting to buy votes would be a clear offence. He urged the Election Commission to take action against any candidate from any party found guilty of vote-buying.

Asif Mahmud also called upon voters to support the 11-party alliance, including candidates contesting under the "Shapla Kali" symbol, with the aim of establishing good governance, sovereignty and reforms. "If elected to parliament with your votes, we pledge to work for the people over the next five years," he said.

NCP Central Election Management Committee Member Secretary Monira Sharmin, Joint Member Secretaries Faisal Mahmud Shanto, Lutfar Rahman and Advocate Humayra Noor, among others, were also present at the press conference.