At least 21 people were detained or jailed for possessing cash, intruding into polling centres, and other anomalies in different districts last night.

The BNP yesterday urged its leaders, activists and voters to guard the centres in turns and not to leave polling stations until the results are officially declared.

BNP is focusing on increasing turnout, with party leaders saying rival parties may attempt to sabotage or slow down the voting process and create fear among voters to keep them away from polling centres.

The participation of women candidates and voters and safety are essential to inclusive democratic processes, said the UN Resident Coordinator’s office

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman on his verified Facebook page yesterday urged voters not to be misled by “disinformation” or to pay heed to “propaganda” and to cast their ballots for their preferred candidates and symbols today.

If voted to power, the BNP wants to establish justice in the country, party Chairman Tarique Rahman said.

In a message on the eve of the polls, he said the election and referendum are a unique and significant chapter in Bangladesh’s political history

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin has assured people that today’s elections will be free and fair, urging all parties and candidates to accept the results as part of the democratic process.

Law enforcement agencies have put in place a tight security arrangement across the country for the national election and referendum today, deploying nearly 10 lakh personnel to ensure a free, fair, and uninterrupted vote.

Bangladesh has been without a competitive election for so long that almost a third of the electorate has never witnessed genuine polls in which voters elect parliamentarians of their choosing.

BNP, Jamaat clashes erupt in Dhaka and Rajshahi

Army, BGB deployed to bring the situation under control

Hatirjheel team leader accused of bribery, fake certificates

Mobile court sentences detainees as BNP men accuse NCP leader of influencing voters

Police and army intervene after heated exchange

Mobile court informed about the incident, police say

With only a day left before the national election, Dhaka wore a deserted look yesterday as many city residents left the capital to cast their votes in their respective constituencies.

A long-standing, unwritten equation has shaped Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections -- the party that secures a majority in the capital usually finds its path to forming the government.

Authorities replace 23 sheets signed in advance

Lakshmipur-3 BNP candidate Anee’s aide held with Tk 15 lakh in campaign vehicle, later released