‘A particular party being favoured ahead of polls’

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam yesterday expressed concern about whether a level playing field exists ahead of the upcoming election.

He alleged that the government’s special protocol for a particular political party is sending a troubling signal that could undermine electoral fairness.

He also claimed that false and negative reports about the NCP are being published in mainstream media.

Nahid made the remarks while speaking to journalists yesterday after a meeting with an election observation delegation led by European Union Chief Election Observer Ivars Ijabs.

He said the EU expects the polls to be free, fair, and competitive. The EU also wants all stakeholders to accept the results to ensure a smooth democratic transition, he added.

He said the EU delegation also assured the NCP of its cooperation during the meeting.

On the issue of a level playing field, Nahid said there is no confidence or consensus among political parties, including the NCP, that such an environment currently exists in the country.

“We believe that by providing special facilities and government protocol to a particular political party, a form of signalling is taking place that may obstruct a level playing field,” he said.

He also raised concerns about the media’s role, alleging a growing tendency to lean towards one side.

“Various negative and false reports about the NCP are appearing in the mainstream media. A few outlets are deliberately targeting us,” he said.

Calling for equal treatment in both administration and media, Nahid said these concerns have been repeatedly raised with the Election Commission and will continue to be conveyed. 

He added that the commission would also be informed about obstacles the party is facing at the field level.

Nahid further said the EC should take firm action against loan defaulters, noting that nominations of several loan defaulters were initially declared valid. 

He also alleged violations of election laws through poster displays and other campaign activities.

On security, he said fear and insecurity persist despite government initiatives and the deployment of security personnel.

“The fear remains, especially as the killers of Sharif Osman Hadi and Farhad have not yet been arrested,” he said.

Regarding seat-sharing, Nahid said the NCP’s position would be clear within the next one or two days. 

He said the Jamaat–NCP alliance is ahead in election preparations and has already begun campaigning in favour of a referendum.

Once the seat-sharing arrangement is finalised, he said, no major challenges would remain ahead of the election.