Salahuddin hopeful of free and fair Feb polls

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed on Friday expressed optimism that the country will witness fair, neutral, free and "beautiful" elections, reflecting the aspirations of people in a fascism-free Bangladesh.

"The hope for a fair election mirrors the people's desire to establish a truly democratic and political government," said Salahuddin, the Paddy Sheaf candidate for Cox's Bazar-1 (Chakaria-Pekua). He added that the blood of the martyrs carries the dream of forming such a government through credible elections.

Salahuddin made the remarks while speaking to reporters after the verification of nomination papers at the office of the District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner in Cox's Bazar.

He said people are eager to exercise their voting rights, urging party leaders and activists to remain vigilant and active to help ensure a fair electoral environment. He also stressed that the Election Commission and the government must work in tandem to create a level playing field for all candidates.

In a brief statement, Salahuddin emphasised that law enforcement agencies must be given top priority in maintaining peace and order during the election period, and that voters must be able to cast their ballots freely and independently.

According to the election schedule, Salahuddin Ahmed, a BNP Standing Committee member and party-nominated candidate for the 13th National Parliament election, travelled to Cox's Bazar to take part in the nomination verification process. He arrived from Dhaka by air at 1:15pm on Friday.

Later in the day, he offered Jumma prayers with party leaders and activists at a local mosque in the Nuniachara area of the city. He then visited the grave of Ritaj Hossain, the infant son of Ansar Hossain, a senior journalist in Cox's Bazar and staff reporter of Daily Amar Desh, who recently died of pneumonia.

After paying respects at the grave, Salahuddin and other BNP leaders visited the bereaved family at their residence and expressed condolences.

In the afternoon, he participated in the verification of nomination papers for candidates contesting the 13th National Parliament election in the Cox's Bazar-1 constituency.