Candidates, contesting the Dhaka-4 and Dhaka-5 constituencies, have expressed concerns and expectations regarding the voting environment, alleged violations of the electoral code of conduct, and the conduct of a free and fair election ahead of the 13th Parliamentary Election.

Speaking to journalists after receiving their election symbols at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s Office on Wednesday, January 21, the candidates called on the Election Commission and relevant authorities to ensure that the polls are held in a peaceful, festive, and impartial atmosphere.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Dhaka-4 candidate, Syed Zainal Abedin, referred to recent election-related incidents in Mirpur and Chouddagram, warning that a continuation of such events could undermine the environment required for a credible election.

He urged authorities to take effective measures to ensure voters can participate freely and without intimidation.

“The Chief Adviser has repeatedly assured that voters will be able to go to polling centres without obstruction. We expect to see that assurance reflected in practice,” he said.

In Dhaka-5, BNP-nominated candidate Nabiullah Nabi expressed confidence that the election would be conducted fairly and peacefully. He said voters were enthusiastic about casting their ballots for the party’s Sheaf of Paddy symbol, adding that people from all political affiliations were looking forward to polling day on the 12th.

Another Dhaka-5 candidate, Kamal Hossain, who is contesting with the Scales symbol, said that while a few isolated incidents had occurred elsewhere in the country, no such incidents had been reported in his constituency so far.

He acknowledged that some violations of the electoral code of conduct had been observed and said written complaints had been submitted to the authorities, resulting in prompt action. He called for continued enforcement through election day and urged swift administrative response in the event of any disorder.

Kamal Hossain also said that if a level playing field is maintained until the eve of the election and voting is conducted in a free, peaceful, and neutral manner, his party would achieve a decisive victory nationwide.