Mir Anwar Hossain Tutul :
In anticipation of the Upazila Parishad election scheduled for June 5 in Mirzapur, Tangail, a disconcerting display of disobedience to electoral regulations has surfaced. Despite directives issued by the Election Commission on April 24, colorful banners and posters adorned with images of party leaders and Members of Parliament (MPs) now clutter the alleys, overshadowing the electoral process.
While the Awami League central committee had advocated for a non-partisan election devoid of party symbols, potential chairman-vice chairman candidates in Mirzapur Upazila have flouted these directives by prominently featuring pictures of prominent figures such as Father of the Nation Bangabandhu, the Prime Minister, district Awami League leaders, and local MPs on their campaign materials.
This deviation from party instructions has sparked discontent among party members and officials.
Reports indicate widespread distribution of such banners and posters featuring candidates alongside party leaders and MPs, contrary to the established guidelines.
According to sources from the Mirzapur upazila election office, the total number of voters in the region amounts to 351,432, comprising 183,209 male voters and 178,223 female voters. The electoral process will encompass 127 centers and 718 booths.
Tangail District Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) and Returning Officer Hossain Mohammad High Joki has outlined the electoral timeline, with key dates including the submission of nomination papers on May 9, selection of nomination papers on May 12, and voting scheduled for June 5.
Candidates vying for the position of chairman and vice chairman have been actively engaging in campaign activities, utilizing various forms of communication and community outreach to garner support.
Among the notable candidates are Mir Sharif Mahmud and Barrister Tahrim Hossain Shimant for chairman, with Azaharul Islam Azahar, Md. Maulana Abdullah Talukder, and others contending for vice chairman positions.
Despite assurances from local officials regarding the fairness and peaceful conduct of the election, the blatant disregard for electoral guidelines raises concerns about the integrity of the process.
In response to the situation, Mirzapur Upazila Executive Officer Sheikh Nurul Alam and Upazila Election Officer Sharifa Begum have affirmed their commitment to upholding the Election Commission’s directives and ensuring a transparent and orderly election process.
