Win or lose, will keep working for people: BNP Dhaka-9 candidate Habib

In the upcoming national election, Dhaka-9, covering Khilgaon, Mugda and Basabo, is expected to be tightly contested, with BNP candidate Habibur Rashid Habib, independent Dr Tasnim Jara and Jamaat-e-Islami-backed Kabir Ahmed in the race. Habib, however, does not see the contest as a challenge. In an exclusive interview with The Business Standard's Akram Hossen on Thursday, the former Chhatra Dal leader said he would continue working for the welfare of his constituents even if defeated.

How might the election be and what are your expectations? 
A free, fair and participatory election will be held and people's voting rights will be established. I am willing to adopt development plans from rival candidates if those initiatives contribute to the welfare of the area and the country.

How do you feel the playing field is currently at the election level?
Ensuring security is not only a matter for candidates but a constitutional right of all citizens. Certain groups have been attempting to create instability. I urge the government to take stronger measures to maintain a safe electoral environment.
Internal and anti-national elements were trying to disrupt the electoral atmosphere and those do not want Bangladesh to move forward as an independent and sovereign country.

What are your plans for the development of this constituency?
I will work to address the severe waterlogging, mosquito infestation, drug abuse and lack of basic civic amenities in the constituency.

Do you see any challenges in the upcoming election? 
I really don't consider it a challenge. The people will elect their representatives through voting. Whether I win or lose, I will continue to work for the development of the area.

Do you communicate or talk with your rival candidates? 
I continue to communicate and meet with the Jamaat candidate. I have also spoken to him at the Election Commission. Talked to independent candidate Tasnim Jara only after the current situation developed.

After Tarique Rahman returned to the country, do you see any changes in field politics? 
People believe that if the BNP is in power, Bangladesh will at least remain free from dominance. After the acting chairman came to the country, people feel that they have found a leader they can rely on. People feel that in any crisis, the person they can depend on is Tarique Rahman.

What would you like to say to your voters?
I love my area and country. To me, it's not just the voters, every person in the area is important. My concern is not only about the voters, my concern is for the whole Dhaka-9 constituency, my concern is for the entire Bangladesh. Therefore, I believe if Bangladesh is well, we will be well. And if we are well, Bangladesh will be well.