Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser of the National Citizens Party (NCP) in the southern region, alleged on Sunday that the current Election Commission (EC) was formed on a 'pick and choose' basis and has practically become the office of a certain political party.
He made these remarks at a press conference organised to protest an attack on party leaders and activists, including NCP leader Ataullah, during an EC hearing earlier in the day.
In the afternoon, a scuffle broke out during the hearing on a petition submitted on the delimitation of parliamentary constituencies ahead of the upcoming elections.
Ataullah alleged that he was attacked by BNP International Affairs Secretary Rumin Farhana and her supporters while participating in the delimitation hearing of Brahmanbaria-3 constituency.
"They tried to drag me out. When I entered the hearing, Rumin Farhana pushed me and her thugs threw me to the ground and beat me. Two other leaders and activists who were with me were also beaten. Everything will be seen on CCTV."
Ataullah demanded justice, adding that he would seek the resignation of the Chief Election Commissioner if justice was not ensured.
NCP leaders said that they would formally submit a complaint to the EC and closely monitor its next steps.
Hasnat claimed BNP leaders publicly said that they could have brought goons if they wanted, referring to a comment made by Farhana earlier in the day.
"They are doing drills outside with sticks. If such a situation can unfold in front of the EC office, then it seems like a mock drill of how they plan to occupy polling centres during the election."
Hasnat also took aim at Farhana, saying, "Rumin Farhana took a flat from the Awami League and felt sadness after the Awami League's collapse. She is more pro-Awami League than the Awami League. There are many such leaders within the BNP who are beneficiaries of the Awami League."
Questioning the role of law enforcers, Hasnat alleged the police played the role of silent observers at the commission gate.
"They prevented our leaders and workers from entering while allowing BNP leaders and workers free movement. This proves the EC has turned into the office of a certain political party."
After participating in the hearing, BNP's Farhana told reporters, "I did not bring any goons, but I could have done so if I wanted to. If I wanted to bring goons, I could have.
"It is very sad that a fight has taken place here. Since I am a lawyer, I thought I would present my case myself. I had hoped that those in the Brahmanbaria-3 constituency, out of respect for the EC, would not let goons and gangsters enter."
Farhana said the NCP leaders entered the EC with 20-25 workers, who were "behaving like goons".
"Their behavior was that of goons. It did not match the seriousness or respect that the EC deserves."
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