BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan stated that while there remains “some concern” regarding law and order, the situation will improve. He emphasised that political parties participating in elections must take responsibility to prevent any deterioration of the situation.
Khan made these remarks to journalists after meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission building in Agargaon on Sunday.
The Election Commission (EC) has assured that it will request additional military deployment during polls, alleviating concerns. The EC is also making proper preparations for the elections.
Khan said, “We primarily discussed the EC’s preparations for the upcoming elections, including the electoral code of conduct, constituency delimitation, and overall election arrangements. Our discussions indicate they are preparing adequately, though they expressed some concerns about law and order.”
He added, “We believe the police’s role has weakened recently – we all know why. The previous government misused them, leaving them ashamed of their own conduct. Efforts are underway to improve this, and with elections still months away, we expect positive changes.”
Regarding military support, Khan noted, “The army is currently assisting in maintaining law and order. The EC has stated it will request additional military deployment if needed during elections, including Coast Guard and Navy in coastal areas. Since the government must comply with EC requests during elections, we see no major concern here.”
Khan stressed, “We political parties must ensure the law-and-order situation doesn’t worsen. Our leaders, activists, and supporters should participate peacefully. If all parties share this approach, we see no risk of deterioration.”
On constituency delimitation, Khan said the EC has maintained geographical integrity of districts and upazilas while considering voter numbers. “We haven’t lodged complaints, though some party members have filed objections about their constituencies – hearings may begin soon.”
Regarding the “No Vote” option, Khan clarified, “We never proposed this. It was introduced during the 1/11 caretaker government and only implemented in 2008. ‘No Vote’ has little relevance here and wasn’t our demand. The current proposal is new – not ours.”
Responding to election timing questions, Khan said, “Some claim elections won’t happen in February. Those in power will decide. As we know, the chief adviser confirmed elections will proceed. The EC is preparing – they should explain their stance.”
On seat-sharing, Khan stated, “No formal discussions have occurred yet. Our acting chairman said movement allies will remain united in governance. Talks may happen after the election schedule is announced – not now.”
BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi and Chairperson’s Advisor Ismail Jabirullah also attended the meeting.
