Sylhet BNP candidate Ariful complains of election ‘engineering’

Sylhet BNP mayoral candidate Ariful Haque Chowdhury says he is worried about the upcoming city corporation polls after hearing whispers of ‘election engineering’.

Awami League candidate Badar Uddin Ahmed Kamran says he has confidence in the people.

Though seven candidates are vying for the mayor’s seat in the Jul 30 election, the focus is firmly on Ariful and Kamran.

Ariful made his concerns known as he was campaigning in the city’s Kaistorail, Jail Road and Nayasarak areas on Saturday.

He called on all voters to go to the polls on election day.

“Everyone is in a festive mood, but I am worried. I have heard whispers of election engineering. If any underhanded means are used, the people of Sylhet will give an adequate response.”

“If the election is conducted fairly our victory is, Inshallah, ensured. People of all classes and creeds have come to help me, unbidden.”

He urged people to come to the polling centres and keep watch.

Kamran, who is campaigning in Akhalia, Nayabazar, Karerpara, Jatarpur and Kalighat, said: “We our continuing our campaign with our faith in the people.”

“If the boat symbol is victorious we will continue the speedy development that Sylhet city has experienced under the current government.”

This is the first time that the parties have selected candidates for the Sylhet City Corporation election.

“The atmosphere for the city polls is peaceful,” said Kamran. “People are very enthusiastic. The party-based vote has only stoked this enthusiasm.”

“We are putting our faith in the people and continuing our campaign. Given the response we have received, I am hopeful of the boat symbol’s victory.”