Rajshahi, Nov 23 (V7N) – BNP’s Shafiqul Haque Milon, nomination candidate for Paba-Mohanpur constituency, urged citizens to actively participate in the upcoming February 2026 national parliamentary elections and vote for their preferred candidates. Speaking at a discussion meeting organized by BNP’s Ward-1 unit in Mougalchhi Union on Sunday afternoon, Milon criticized past election practices under the Awami League government, describing them as heavily manipulated and unreflective of the people’s will.

Milon alleged that in previous elections over the last 17 years, only Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina effectively voted, while ordinary citizens were denied a fair opportunity. “Ballots were often sealed before the voting day, and many candidates were appointed arbitrarily. The people’s voice was never truly heard,” he said.

He recounted widespread persecution faced by BNP leaders and activists during the previous government, including over five million cases filed against approximately 600,000 party members, extrajudicial killings of more than 20,000 leaders, enforced disappearances of 1,700 activists, and systematic harassment targeting students, youth, and businesspeople. Milon emphasized that despite severe repression, BNP leaders and their families remained committed to Bangladesh’s democratic future.

Milon praised former BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia for her sacrifices, noting her imprisonment under fabricated charges and harsh treatment by a kangaroo court. He highlighted her refusal to leave Bangladesh despite threats to her children, demonstrating her dedication to the country.

Calling for unity, Milon urged BNP supporters to safeguard the party symbol, the paddy-sheaf, and work collectively to ensure victory. He warned against the influence of Jamaat-e-Islami, describing it as a party whose actions often contradict Islamic principles, and encouraged citizens to remain vigilant against such groups.

The discussion meeting, held at the Mougalchhi Technical School grounds, was presided over by BNP Ward-1 President Bakul Hossain and moderated by General Secretary Mohir Ali. Present were Mohanpur Upazila BNP President Shamimul Islam, General Secretary Mahbub Ar Rashid, organizational secretaries Bacchu Rahman and Shahin Akter Shamuszoha, former organizational secretary Kazim Uddin Sarkar, and leaders from youth and student wings of BNP, among others.

Milon emphasized that this election must be different from the past, stressing direct engagement with the people, raising awareness of the election’s importance, and restoring the democratic rights of all citizens.

END/MRA/SMA/