JOF slates EC’s ‘failure’ to ensure congenial poll environment

Jatiya Oikya Front (JOF) leaders came down heavily upon Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday for its 'failure' to ensure a congenial atmosphere for holding a free and fair election.
They also criticised EC for its several decisions, including restriction on media, which, according to them, will hamper the voting process.
The JOF leaders condemned incessant assaults on its leaders and activists across the country with alleged involvement of the law-enforcing agencies and administration.
They said these at a press conference at its city headquarters on Wednesday.
The alliance leaders Jaglul Haider Afrik, Syed Moazzem Hossain Alal, and Mostafa Mohsin Montu spoke at the programme, among others.
Jaglul Haider Afrik read out a statement on behalf of the JOF Convener Dr Kamal Hossain.
He said the ruling party is campaigning for the parliamentary election in an empty field by driving away the rival political party activists from electioneering.
"Election Commission is not paying attention to the issue despite the widespread atrocities on JOF leaders and activists," said the statement.
However, it expressed hope that JOF will come out successful in the national election on December 30, if people can exercise their voting rights independently.
Criticising EC's role, the statement said the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) has become too 'reckless' and 'partial', and so, he is not paying any heed to the country's important persons like Dr Kamal Hossain.
The statement condemned EC's role for restricting media from covering the news regarding polling development.
"EC is attempting to kill the freedom of press and media by imposing restrictions on journalists' activities, including their movements by motorbikes and limiting access to the polling centres."
JOF demanded that the media personnel have to be allowed to move freely and act on their will for covering the election.
The alliance also alleged that EC has employed many officials in several districts, who are favouring the ruling Awami League (AL).
Mr Afrik referred to many incidents across the country, where the JOF leaders and activists were attacked by AL men.
Besides, he also criticised the mass-arrest of JOF supporters by police.

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