The National Citizen Party (NCP) spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan today alleged that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was violating the constitution and existing laws ahead of the national election.

He made the remarks at the NCP central office in Bangla Motor this evening.

“We can clearly see BNP candidates flouting the constitution and prevailing laws,” Asif Mahmud said.

“BNP presents itself as democratic, a champion of democracy, and a pioneer of democratic politics in various forums. But their activities tell a completely different story. They are acting against democracy, the constitution of Bangladesh, and existing laws.”

Expressing concern over the ongoing election preparations, Asif said, “We had already expressed concerns that this election seems to be following patterns observed in the previous three polls. The appeals hearing today has made these concerns more evident and has even given rise to new worries.”

He also raised the issue of candidates holding dual citizenship, citing constitutional provisions.

“The constitution of Bangladesh clearly states that any person who acquires foreign citizenship, or even expresses allegiance to another country -- not just citizenship -- loses the eligibility to contest as a member of parliament,” he said.

“Yet, we have observed several candidates with dual nationality approaching the Election Commission and acting with impunity. One candidate even brought 200–300 people to the commission,” he added.

Asif said loan defaulters and candidates holding dual citizenship are not eligible to contest in the upcoming national election.

“We will continue our legal battle. Candidates who are loan defaulters or hold dual citizenship will not be allowed to contest the election,” he said.

He added, “We will fight against them on all fronts -- legal, political, and on the streets. We will resist them in the constituencies.”