Jamaat denounces 'fabricated' election results, alleges bias

It blames the administration for its candidates’ defeats and raises concerns about the transparency of the electoral process

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has cast doubt on the outcome of the 13th parliamentary election, alleging “inconsistencies” and “fabrications” in unofficial tallies.

The party, which leads an 11-party alliance, said it believed the administration had not acted impartially during the election and indicated it would announce a formal programme in response.

In a Facebook post on Friday morning, Jamaat thanked voters for participating peacefully in the elections.

However, it blamed the administration for its candidates’ defeats and raised concerns about the transparency of the electoral process.

"We express our sincere gratitude to you for casting your votes in large numbers throughout the day in such a positive and peaceful atmosphere," it said.

"However, we are not satisfied with the process surrounding the election results. From candidates of the 11-party alliance narrowly and suspiciously losing in various constituencies, to repeated inconsistencies and fabrications in unofficial result announcements, the Election Commission’s reluctance to publish voter turnout percentages, and indications that a section of the administration leaned towards a major party -- all of this undoubtedly raises serious questions about the integrity of the results process."

The party urged supporters to remain patient and wait for the alliance’s next announcement.

"We urge everyone to remain patient and await the official programme of the 11-party alliance. Our struggle for justice in pursuit of a humane Bangladesh will continue, Insha’Allah."