Jhalokathi, Oct 31 (V7N) – South Region Chief Organizer of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) Hasnat Abdullah said on Friday that political forces supporting reform will gain the majority in Bangladesh’s upcoming national election. He made the remarks while addressing the district coordination meeting of the NCP held at Fatema Conversation Hall in Jhalokathi. The meeting was presided over by district chief coordinator Mainul Islam Manna.

“We believe that only those who support reform will achieve a majority in the next parliament,” Abdullah said. “From that perspective, we are continuing our internal discussions and preparing to contest the election in unity under the banner of reformist forces.”

He criticized the prevailing political environment, saying, “Given the current situation, it is difficult to believe that a free and fair election will take place. The administrative machinery—from deputy commissioners to SPs, UNOs, and assistant commissioners—is being divided among major political parties, each trying to use the administration for its own benefit. The Election Commission, too, is far from neutral and lacks a clear policy framework.”

Abdullah alleged that the voter list contains around 15 million names of deceased voters. “In the 2014, 2018, and 2024 elections, we saw reports that even the dead came out of their graves to vote. Unless political parties unite and ensure a fair and transparent electoral process, a truly free election will not be possible,” he stated. He added that the Election Commission must act according to principles, not personal whims.

Calling for a neutral caretaker administration, the NCP leader said, “The interim government must play an impartial role because the people of Bangladesh are waiting for a fair vote. All political parties must share responsibility for ensuring that the election can be held properly. Unfortunately, the Election Commission seems to be mocking us instead of maintaining integrity.”

Turning his criticism toward the ruling Awami League, Abdullah said, “The Awami League is no longer a political party—it has turned into a fascist organization. If they truly had popular support, they would not have needed to abolish the caretaker government system or flee from accountability. They would not have resorted to staging dummy elections.”

He further accused the ruling government of legitimizing disappearances and extrajudicial killings. “During the era of fascist rule, the abductions and killings of BNP and student activists were justified. Many journalists, intellectuals, and cultural activists who benefited from the ruling party in the past remained silent then—they did not speak about humanity.”

Explaining his party’s electoral stance, Abdullah said, “We seek votes from citizens who believe in the spirit of Bangladesh’s independence and the Liberation War, who are not involved in crime, and who reject enforced disappearances and killings. Anti-fascist forces must unite to build a new Bangladesh.”

He emphasized that NCP stands for rebuilding the state based on justice and democracy. “If the administration acts impartially in the upcoming election, it can be both fair and successful. Establishing democracy and building a modern, progressive state will require collective effort from all political groups.”

The meeting was also attended by NCP Joint Conveners and Regional Organizers Mujahidul Islam Shahin, Joint Member Secretaries Mashiur Rahman and Mahmuda Mitu, Chief Coordinator Arifur Rahman Tuhin, and Central Committee Member and Barishal District Coordinator Abu Sayeed Musa. NCP leaders from all four upazilas of Jhalokathi district also participated in the event.

END/AIJ/SMA/