Upazila polls end, counting on

The fifth phase of Upazila (sub-districts) elections across Bangladesh has ended with pro-BNP candidates withdrawing from the contest in several places alleging large-scale rigging and intimidation.

There was no immediate official reaction on voter turnout or on the Opposition allegations.

A number of ballot papers were snatched in Gaibandha, and supporters of rival candidates fought pitched battles in Munshiganj and Tangail.

Voting began in 73 Upazilas at 8am and ended at 4pm on Monday.

Election officials are busy counting and the results are expected soon.

As many as 1,059 aspirants are in the fray for the posts of chairman, male vice-chairman and female vice-chairperson’s posts.

Balloting was suspended at 12 centres in Barguna’s Amtali barely half an hour after polling began due to alleged irregularities and forcible takeover of polling stations.

Pro-BNP candidates and a rebel Awami League aspirant boycotted polls at 13 Upazilas alleging massive irregularities.

The BNP accused election officials and law enforcers of connivance.

However, no major incident of violence was reported.

Candidates, loyal to ruling Awami League, have taken the lead after the fourth phase of the polls. They won chairman posts in 177 Upazilas, followed by BNP-blessed candidates who won in 150.

But, the BNP-led 19-Party alliance is still ahead of the ruling party, having won a total of 183 chairman posts.