Dhaka, Feb 13 (V7N) — BNP Microfinance Affairs Secretary and Dhaka-11 constituency candidate MA Qayyum has raised questions about the legitimacy of the 13th National Parliament election results in his constituency.

MA Qayyum, who contested under the paddy sheaf symbol, narrowly lost to Nahid Islam, candidate of the 11-party alliance and convener of the NCP. Speaking to reporters in front of his election office on Friday (February 12) afternoon, he expressed concerns about the vote count and alleged irregularities.

He questioned, “Where does a candidate who cannot provide polling agents get so many votes?”, pointing to Nahid Islam’s unexpectedly high tally. MA Qayyum claimed that major rigging and engineering occurred in the election, and that postal voting played a significant role in his defeat. He described himself as a victim of a conspiracy, alleging that his credibility was damaged by the controversial conduct of the election.

The BNP leader also accused his opponent of spreading confusion in voters’ minds by invoking the legacy of the July martyrs, and stated that his supporters faced attacks in various areas during the campaign.

MA Qayyum confirmed that he has formally applied to the Election Commission for a recount in Dhaka-11. If the request is not addressed satisfactorily, he said he would pursue legal action.

Despite losing, he reaffirmed his commitment to his constituents, promising to tackle drug abuse and terrorism in the area, emphasizing that the incoming BNP government will help him fulfill these goals.

END/SMA/AJ