Porwar says, referring to today’s violence on Khulna court premises

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar today expressed doubts over the fairness of the upcoming national election

"All parties, including the anti-fascist eight, have agreed to participate in the election, but the question of whether the election will be free and fair still remains before the nation," he said while speaking at the first divisional city rally of the eight like-minded parties at the Madrasa Field in Rajshahi today.

Referring to today's violence on the Khulna court premises, where two people were gunned down in broad daylight, Porwar said, "In a country where murders can take place in front of a court, there is no guarantee that vote rigging or killings will not occur at polling stations under such an administration."

The Jamaat leader also highlighted that attacks, assaults, and vandalism are being carried out by one group during meetings, campaigns, and gatherings, including those of women, organised by Jamaat-e-Islami.

He criticised the administration for failing to prevent such incidents, saying that if the authorities cannot stop these attacks, elections under their supervision cannot be impartial.

Porwar also criticised the interim government for announcing the national election and a referendum on the same day, allegedly following the advice of some advisers.

He said holding both votes on the same day would create serious confusion, as voters would struggle to distinguish between party votes and the "yes–no" vote, potentially reducing turnout.

He called for a new Bangladesh where no party can deny past crimes, and future corruption, terrorism, and suppression of dissent will be firmly opposed.

He stressed that a level playing field has not yet been established, alleging that the administration has been compromised through secret manipulation of DCs, SPs, UNOs, and other officials, thereby giving an advantage to one party.

"Before the election, every party should have equal opportunity -- this is desirable," he said.

"The people of Bangladesh will apply the lessons of the July 2024 uprising. Anyone attempting to manipulate votes will face the same consequences," he added.