Hasnat Abdullah pledges crackdown on extortionists, if elected

FE Team | Published: January 30, 2026 23:19:47

CUMILLA, Jan 30 (BSS): Hasnat Abdullah, the chief organiser of the National Citizens' Party (NCP) Southern Region and the 11-party alliance candidate for the Cumilla-4 constituency, has pledged to crack down on extortionists, drug dealers, and loan defaulters if elected in the forthcoming parliamentary election.
Addressing an election rally at Maricha village in Rajamehar union of Debidwar upazila, Hasnat issued a strong warning to those involved in illegal syndicates and the drug trade.
"Come back from the wrong path," Hasnat said, addressing drug dealers, users and their associates. "If you need employment, let us know-we will make arrangements for earning a livelihood through legal means. But anyone who thinks of running a drug business or syndicate here will face serious consequences."
Criticising the culture of political compromise with criminals, he noted that many prominent leaders had previously engaged in politics by accepting extortion money from drug lords. He added that these leaders are now on the run and asserted that their time is coming to an end soon.
Regarding his commitment to the constituency, Hasnat drew a contrast with past leadership.
He said, "If the people help me for the first 15 days, I would be able to stand by them for the next five years", he added.
During the rally, he instructed every voter and activist to reach out to at least 10 people daily to solicit votes for the 'Shapla Koli' (water lily bud) symbol.
He also called upon children and adolescents to participate in the campaign, noting that while there is an age limit for voting, there is no age limit for asking for votes.
Highlighting the significance of female voters, Hasnat expressed his confidence in winning through their support.
"Inshallah, this time we will go to parliament with the votes of our mothers, aunts, and sisters," he said, urging women to vote for him as their son, noting that women never break their promises once given.