As political tensions rise before the upcoming February elections in Bangladesh, the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami and the National Citizens Party (NCP) have alleged that sections of the civil administration are favoring the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Jamaat, in a meeting of its central executive council, highlighted the absence of conditions for a fair election in the country, as reported by The Daily Star.
Accusations have surfaced from various areas indicating that some government officials are supporting a specific party, stated a press release from Jamaat’s central publicity department. The party has called for strict measures to ensure the administration’s neutrality and urged the Election Commission and law enforcement agencies to act impartially.
NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary, speaking at a rally in Dhaka University, claimed that the civil administration is showing bias towards the BNP. The NCP leader cited instances of government officials leaving their offices to welcome Tarique Rahman, as reported by The Daily Star.
Moreover, opinion polls now suggest a significant shift in favor of the BNP for the upcoming elections. Recent polls indicate a substantial lead for the BNP over Jamaat-e-Islami, with 70% of respondents expressing support for the party led by the late Khaleda Zia. In contrast, Jamaat has garnered only 19% support, highlighting a significant disparity.
According to an opinion poll by Eminence Associates for Social Development (EASD), the newly formed NCP has the backing of 2.9% of the population. The political landscape in Bangladesh is witnessing escalating tensions as the elections scheduled for February 12 approach, with divisions deepening among party lines.
