Jamaat alleges partisan role by field administration, seeks transfer of DCs, SPs

Highlights:

• Demands immediate transfer of several DCs and SPs
• Claims no level playing field due to ‘party-aligned’ officials
• Alleges double standards in nomination scrutiny, citing BNP cases
• Says security is being provided selectively
• Accuses a party of violating the election code of conduct

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has alleged that field-level administration officials are acting on partisan instructions, undermining the neutrality of the electoral process.

During a meeting with the Election Commission (EC) today (7 January), the party also demanded the immediate transfer of several deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs).

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Jamaat Nayeb-e-Ameer Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher said “party-aligned DCs” have been appointed at the field level, resulting in the implementation of political decisions rather than neutral administration. 

“We have informed the commission about these controversial DCs and SPs and demanded their transfer. At present, there is no level playing field in the elections,” he said.

He also alleged discrimination in the scrutiny of nomination papers, claiming unequal application of the law. 

“Despite having dual citizenship, the nomination papers of 12-13 BNP candidates were accepted. In our case, different decisions were taken under the same law. We have strongly protested this double standard,” he said.

Raising concerns over security arrangements, the Jamaat leader said protection was being extended selectively. 

“Some are being given excessive security, while others are receiving none. The government must ensure equal treatment of all major political parties,” he said, adding that the commission had agreed with the demand “in principle”.

On election code violations, Taher alleged that one political party was campaigning by promising to distribute different cards if voted to power, which he said constituted a clear breach of the code of conduct. “The commission has assured us of action. We are now waiting to see that action.”

Addressing speculation over diplomatic contacts, Taher said there had been no formal meeting with the Indian High Commission. He explained that when the Jamaat ameer was ill, the Indian mission had sought a meeting and requested confidentiality, which Jamaat respected. “Beyond that, there was no formal meeting with India,” he said.

He also clarified reports of talks with BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, saying there was no formal meeting and that it was merely a courtesy call. 

“We have consistently stated that if the election is fair, we will accept the people’s verdict,” he added.

He further said Jamaat had informed the commission about growing public anxiety over the law and order situation, noting that fear and uncertainty were spreading among general people.