As the counting of votes begins in Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary elections, the country’s electoral environment is witnessing a high level of enthusiasm. Bangladeshis are eagerly participating in the democratic process, with many voters turning up at polling stations to cast their ballots. Amidst this euphoria, the chief of Jamat-e-Islami, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has issued a statement urging citizens to remain vigilant and monitor the polling stations closely until the election results are announced.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, in his message on social media platform X, claimed that attempts were made to rig the election in various parts of the country. He appealed to the public to remain watchful and ensure the protection of the right to vote by monitoring their respective polling stations until the election results are announced. The Jamat-e-Islami leader also asked the people to remain calm, vigilant, and steadfast in their commitment to the democratic process.
Dr. Shafiqur Rahman emphasized that his party is poised to achieve a landslide victory in the elections, and the people’s will should be respected. He stated that the party will not compromise on its principles and will continue to fight for justice and equality. The Jamat-e-Islami chief also warned that any attempts to undermine the democratic process would be met with firm resistance.
Meanwhile, the election commission has reported a voter turnout of 47.91% in the first phase of voting, with the number expected to rise as the day progresses. However, the turnout in the capital city of Dhaka was lower than expected, with many analysts attributing this to the ban on the main opposition party, Awami League, from participating in the elections.
In other news, the United Arab Emirates has imposed a ban on soft drinks, chocolates, and potato chips in schools, while Iran has announced that it will not compromise on its ballistic missile program, despite pressure from the US. In a separate incident, a son in India’s Bengaluru city has been arrested for murdering his parents in a domestic dispute.
The ICC has also imposed a fine on Afghan cricketer Mohammad Nabi for violating the code of conduct. The UAE has also announced new appointments and dismissals of government officials, while senior Indian singer Aditya Narayan is facing fresh charges in a year-old case of allegedly forcing his ex-wife to undergo an abortion without her consent.
