There’s no level playing field, can’t accept polls under these circumstances: Jamaat
A level playing field must be ensured for all parties and candidates before any national election can be accepted, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar said today.
"People still have doubts about the government's role. That's why I say there is no level playing field. We cannot accept an election under these circumstances," he said while speaking at Suhrawardy Udyan ahead of the party's national rally scheduled for 19 July.
Jamaat urges partymen to take maximum preparation to ensure success of 19 July rally
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Parwar said that while Jamaat is ready to participate in elections whenever the government announces the date, it will reject any polls arranged in a haphazard or careless manner.
"Jamaat has never spoken of postponing or advancing the election since 5 August. We said Jamaat is prepared for the election whenever the government declares it. But no election will be allowed to take place in a careless or haphazard manner," he stressed.
Parwar warned of possible disruptions during the election process, saying those responsible for the current unstable situation may attempt to occupy polling stations, loot ballot boxes, or trigger other incidents.
He said the law and order situation must improve to ensure a fair, neutral, acceptable, and participatory election. He also called for guaranteeing every voter's safe return home after casting their vote.
Meanwhile, Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Abdul Halim at a preparatory meeting in Moghbazar urged its members and supporters to prepare extensively for the "National Rally" on 19 July at Suhrawardy Udyan.
He said the rally must be taken with utmost seriousness and organisational strength. He added that the event aims to demand justice for all acts of genocide, political reforms, implementation and declaration of the July Charter, and rehabilitation of families affected during the July uprising.
Halim also said the party will press for national elections under a proportional representation system, expatriate voting rights, and establishment of a genuine level playing field for all political parties.
He called on partymen to intensify promotional and outreach activities and mobilise citizens from grassroots to district levels to remain active and prepared for the coming political challenges.
