Ishrak Hossain, the BNP candidate for the Dhaka-6 constituency, stated on Monday that the public would provide a “tough response” through their votes against those involved in extortion and looting under the guise of religion.
Speaking to journalists during an election campaign in Ward 42 of Sutrapur, he said if Dhaka-6 has turned into a refuge for extortionists, the responsibility lies with the government, as maintaining law and order is its duty.
He said those who have occupied banks, hospitals and financial institutions will be held accountable by voters in the 12 February polls.
Commenting on the electoral atmosphere, Hossain said the environment in Dhaka-6 and other constituencies remains largely peaceful and fair, but added that indecent and discourteous remarks by some candidates have caused unease among voters.
Referring to what he described as obscene comments made about him by a rival, he said such behaviour reflected a lack of political decency, while reaffirming his commitment to democracy and saying he would accept the outcome of any free, fair and neutral election.
Asked about security concerns, he said life and death are in the hands of the Almighty, adding that he joined the movement prepared to face death and does not fear bullets.
Highlighting local problems, Hossain said Dhaka-6 has become nearly unliveable due to narrow and broken roads, mismanaged waste, and acute drainage, sewerage and gas crises.
He said while the problems cannot be solved overnight, he would take phased initiatives to address years of neglect in maintaining the constituency.
