Bangladesh Poll Campaign Marred by Manipulation Allegations

Bangladesh’s election campaign has taken a dramatic and tense turn, with growing political rivalry, allegations of electoral manipulation, and strong statements from party leaders across the country. The developments have raised concerns about the fairness of the upcoming polls.

In Madaripur, at least 20 leaders and activists of the Awami League (AL) were seen openly campaigning for BNP candidate Nadira Akhtar. This surprised many people because the Awami League’s activities have been restricted, and several of its members have been staying out of public view. The leaders said they were following instructions from former chief whip Noor-e-Alam Chowdhury Liton. Their move has sparked fresh debate and confusion in local political circles, as party workers supporting a rival candidate is considered unusual.

At the same time, concerns about election integrity have surfaced in Lakshmipur. Police registered a case after discovering the alleged manufacture of fake ballot seals. According to officials, a ward-level leader of Jamaat-e-Islami and the owner of a local printing shop were accused of producing six illegal voting seals. These seals could have been used to tamper with ballot papers.

Police said the printing shop owner admitted to making the seals on the instructions of Jamaat leader Sourav Hossain Sharif. Following the incident, Jamaat-e-Islami expelled the accused leader from the party.

Adding to the tension, BNP Joint Secretary General Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee alleged that there was a larger conspiracy to influence the election. He warned that some groups might try to print fake ballots or manipulate the voting process.

With such incidents and accusations, the political atmosphere in Bangladesh has become more charged. Observers say these developments may affect public trust in the election process and have called for strict monitoring to ensure free and fair polls.