The National Citizen Party (NCP) has strongly denounced efforts to manipulate public opinion through the media, emphasizing the necessity of combating attempts to sway voters using money or intimidation, regardless of political allegiance. Addressing a press conference at the party’s office in Bangla Motor, Dhaka, NCP spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain asserted that any instances of candidates or their supporters engaging in vote-buying, involving financial transactions with voters, should be treated as criminal activities. He emphasized the importance of swift and decisive action by the Election Commission and field magistrates, emphasizing that offenders should be held accountable irrespective of their party affiliation.
However, Bhuyain criticized the portrayal of ordinary possession of cash as a crime, cautioning against unfairly stigmatizing individuals for carrying or handling money. He urged for a more impartial approach by the authorities, especially in cases where minor cash possessions are exaggerated and portrayed as criminal acts by the media. Bhuyain also highlighted a specific incident in Lakshmipur, where a substantial amount of money was reportedly found in the campaign vehicle of BNP leader Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee. While acknowledging the right of individuals to possess personal funds, Bhuyain emphasized that any transportation or distribution of money through election vehicles should be subject to legal scrutiny.
In a stern warning to media owners and editors, Bhuyain called for the dissemination of accurate and unbiased information, cautioning against partiality. He declared that there would be no leniency post-election and stressed the initiation of accountability measures after February 12. Bhuyain accused the BNP and its coalition partners of attempting to disrupt voting in constituencies where they lack support, citing a specific instance in Cumilla-4, where a disqualified BNP candidate allegedly made threats against voters.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the Election Commission’s response, Bhuyain criticized the perceived timidity of the warning issued in response to the disruption attempts. On a positive note, he commended the joint forces and the army for successfully uncovering weapons in various areas, which he believed had bolstered voter confidence. Bhuyain urged swift action from authorities in addressing any remaining weapon stockpiles to ensure a peaceful electoral environment.