Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain has described the upcoming national election as a major test for the country, stressing the need for strong law-and-order measures to ensure a credible and dispute-free vote.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday following a meeting with government officials at the Rangpur Deputy Commissioner’s conference room, he said, “The election ahead of us is a very big test. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has repeatedly said this must be an ideal election, one that leaves no room for complaints. For that, maintaining law and order is extremely important.”
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Enamul Ahsan, Metropolitan Additional Deputy Commissioner (Crime) Tofael Ahmed, Superintendent of Police Marufat Hossain, and officials from various departments attended the meeting.
Touhid Hossain noted that the country recently passed through a difficult period but added that law enforcement agencies had managed to regain stability.
“Law and order is the foundation of everything. Without it, nothing can be achieved. The encouraging thing is that the police have ultimately been able to consolidate their position,” he said.
He cautioned that election-related unrest could arise from candidates who expect to lose. “A candidate who fears defeat may attempt to create trouble. Keeping that in mind, necessary measures will be taken. The Chief Election Commissioner has already held meetings, and the Home Ministry adviser is also fully alert,” he added.
Expressing optimism about the upcoming polls, he said, “We hope that a fair election will allow a new government to be formed, and we will be able to hand over our responsibilities and step aside.”
During the interaction, he also responded to questions on various topics including the export of shatranji (traditional carpets) and overseas employment.
Later in the day, he was scheduled to visit Rangpur Cadet College. On Sunday, he will speak as chief guest at a discussion at Magura High School in Kishoreganj, Nilphamari.
