Alleging intolerant behaviour by a political group, National Citizen Party (NCP) convener and Dhaka-11 candidate Nahid Islam said verbal exchanges are natural during elections, but attacks are being carried out as some are unable to accept differing views.

“If this continues, the election will not be free and fair. We urge them to abandon such practices; otherwise, there will be retaliation,” he said.

Nahid made the remarks on Wednesday (January 28) morning while campaigning with members of the social organisation Bhorer Sathi Prabhati Sangha at Hatirjheel in the capital.

He said those who believe they can win elections through force or occupation should abandon that notion. “Victory and defeat here will be decided only through a fair vote. Renounce the behaviour displayed yesterday (Monday), or there will be a response,” he added.

The NCP leader further said that shots had been fired at their office and that his campaign was being obstructed both directly and indirectly.

“We have informed law enforcement agencies. In addition, violations of the electoral code of conduct by a candidate in this constituency have been reported to the Election Commission, which will take action,” he said.

Highlighting local issues, Nahid said development in the area had been largely unplanned, leaving no playgrounds as many had been encroached upon. “If we come to power, we will recover the occupied playgrounds,” he said.

He also pointed to gas and electricity shortages, severe traffic congestion, extortion, land grabbing, terrorism, juvenile gangs, and threats and harassment faced by women.

“We expected these problems to decline after August 5, but there has been no improvement. Instead, extortion has increased. We will not allow any extortionists,” he added.