Bobby Hajjaj promises accountable admin and crime free Dhaka-13

Bobby Hajjaj, BNP candidate for the Dhaka-13 constituency, has pledged to establish a people-friendly, safe, and accountable administration if elected in the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.

In an interview with BSS, Hajjaj discussed his area-based priorities, adherence to the electoral code of conduct, the referendum on the "July Charter," and his expectations for the national polls.

Representing the areas of Mohammadpur, Adabor, and Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Hajjaj outlined a vision centered on transparency and direct public engagement.

He said if elected, he will organize Open Town Hall meetings once a month in each of the seven wards of Dhaka-13.

These sessions are intended to bring together the Member of Parliament, local councilors, police officials, and representatives from utility providers like Titas Gas to address public grievances, he added.

To ensure maximum transparency, he has a plan to broadcast these meetings live online, allowing citizens to ask questions and lodge complaints directly.

Addressing the local security situation, Hajjaj identified terrorism, extortion, juvenile gangs, and drug trafficking as the most pressing issues of Dhaka-13.

He committed to a zero-tolerance policy against the crimes and noted that community-based initiatives—including coordination with housing societies, mosque committees, and volunteers—are already underway.

The efforts include the installation of CCTV cameras, improved street lighting, and volunteer patrols, all of which he intends to expand significantly after the election.

Hajjaj emphasized that strict measures will be taken against anyone involved in criminal activities, regardless of their political affiliation.

He stated that the BNP is committed to expelling any member proven to be involved in extortion or terrorism.

Additionally, he mentioned plans to work with market committees to develop alternative systems to eliminate market-based extortion.

Regarding the electoral code of conduct, Hajjaj claimed his team is under strict instructions to avoid violations.

However, he alleged that his opponent, Mamunul Haque, and his supporters have been violating the code by using oversized colored banners and loud processions.

Hajjaj reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful campaign under the Paddy Sheaf symbol.

On the topic of the national referendum concerning the 'July Charter,' Hajjaj clarified that supporting a "Yes" vote is the formal position of his political alliance, and he expects all member parties to uphold this decision.

While viewing the 13th National Election as a vital path for democratic transition, Hajjaj expressed significant concern regarding the Election Commission's readiness. Specifically, he noted a lack of experimental activity regarding ballot management for expatriate voters, which he believes could pose a challenge to the integrity of the process.

He described the election as a choice for the public between democratic nationalist politics and undemocratic or extremist paths.

The Dhaka-13 constituency consists of 408,791 total voters, comprising 209,812 males, 198,971 females, and 8 third-gender voters, along with 5,617 postal voters.

Hajjaj is one of nine candidates vying for the seat. His competitors include Md Mamunul Haque (Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish-Rickshaw), Fatema Akter Munia (Bangladesh Insaaniat Biplob - Apple), Mizanur Rahman (Gono Odhikar Parishad - Truck), Md Khalekuzzaman (Socialist Party of Bangladesh -Ladder), Md. Shahabuddin (Bangladesh Minority Janata Party- Rocket), Shahriar Iftekhar (Bangladesh Muslim League - Hurricane), Sheikh Md. Rabiul Islam (Independent - Kite) and Sohel Rana (Independent-Pitcher).