Ensure a conducive environment as elections at the doorstep

THE 13th National Parliament Election is just around the corner. Candidates from different political parties, independent candidates, rebel candidates—all are in the fray. They are trying day and night to gain the sympathy of the voters.

The last day to withdraw candidacy is January 20. After this, the symbols will be allocated and the campaigning will be in full swing.

However, election and security analysts fear that the weak law and order situation may disrupt the election atmosphere or the much-anticipated festive atmosphere.

Two strong alliances have been formed in the country, centered around BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami.

Apart from these, some political parties are also participating in the elections. Many independent candidates are also taking part.

As an old and large party, BNP has multiple qualified candidates in almost every seat. Moreover, candidates from other parties in the alliance had to be nominated.

Therefore, many of those who did not get nominations from the party have become independent candidates.

The party is in discussions with them. If anyone remains a ‘rebel’ candidate, then party action will be taken against them.

The Jamaat-led alliance also has some problems with seat distribution. It is learned that Jamaat wants to keep about 190 seats for itself and distribute the remaining seats among the alliance partners.

Some parties are objecting to the number of seats allotted. They too hope that everything will be decided before the withdrawal date.

Meanwhile, the law and order situation in the country is very fragile for various reasons. Political killings are increasing. Bloody clashes are also happening between supporters of different political parties.

In such a situation, the call made by BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman that there will be differences and disagreements among us, but it should not divide the nation in any way. We hope people of all parties will understand the meaning of his statement.

According to published data, the rate of murder, robbery, banditry, mob violence and other crimes was very high throughout 2025.

During the year, 133 people have been killed in political violence. Seven thousand 511 people have been injured. Nearly 4500 murder cases were filed in the country.

The people of the country have not been able to exercise their right to vote for a long time.

Therefore, they are looking forward to voting in a festive atmosphere in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

It is the responsibility of the interim government and the Election Commission to fulfill their expectations. We want the next elections to be free, fair and festive.