Decision draws criticism over election transparency and monitoring

Emergency and special services exempted from restrictions

Nearly 10 lakh security personnel from various agencies have been deployed across the country to maintain law and order ahead of the 13th national election and referendum on February 12.

National Citizen Party Convener Nahid Islam yesterday vowed to build a Bangladesh free from structural inequality, systemic corruption, and foreign dominance, singling out India’s influence over the country’s politics and economy.

Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) Ameer Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, widely known as the Charmonai Pir, urged people to vote for honest and competent candidates, saying that voting concerns not only this life but the afterlife as well.

A study by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) found widespread violations of the electoral code of conduct and a lack of strong action by the authorities to ensure a level playing field for the February 12 elections.

BNP-nominated candidates are facing strong competition from rebel party candidates in around four dozen constituencies, according to the party’s internal findings.

Driving through the haors -- vast, bowl-shaped freshwater wetlands -- in Sunamganj, one grasps what immensity and remoteness truly mean.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman yesterday urged leaders, activists, and supporters of the 11-party electoral alliance to guard polling stations on February 12 to protect the spirit of the July uprising.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman yesterday urged people to be vigilant about protecting their voting rights from “a group that is using religion to mislead the public and carry out plans to manipulate the electoral process”.

National election and Ramadan cargo release cited as reason

High expense main reason, he says

Voting and leaving won’t be enough, people must stay alert, he says

The Election Commission had claimed that it would monitor the campaigns of political parties and candidates on social media ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election and referendum scheduled for February 12.

In an election season dominated by blaring loudspeakers and long motorcades, Rangpur-4 candidate Pragati Barman Toma is taking a different approach: a quiet, door-to-door campaign, focused entirely on a manifesto centred on farmers’ rights, women’s dignity and basic public services.

Sinthia Akter runs a beauty parlour in Rahmatpur, Jinjira, along the banks of the Buriganga river. She has lived in the area since childhood.

Court orders CID to investigate the case

Alleges harassment and assault on their female activists; urges EC to act swiftly

Campaigning for Bobby Hajjaj, BNP chairman says throughout Dhaka and the country, law and order will be ensured

Altercation broke out during Jamaat campaign over vote-buying claims, locals say