BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday raised concerns over the Election Commission’s (EC) transparency and alleged that in many instances, the commission has acted in a biased manner, which could hinder a free and fair election.

However, he expressed optimism that if the existing shortcomings are promptly addressed, a credible election could still be held under the current commission.

Mirza Fakhrul visited the EC at 4:45 PM on Sunday to meet with the Chief Election Commissioner.

He was accompanied by a three-member BNP delegation, including Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, Advisory Council member Ismail Jabiullah and former Acting Secretary of EC Mohammad Zakaria.

After the meeting, he briefed reporters around 6 PM.

Fakhrul criticized the postal ballots, calling them flawed and allegedly designed to favor a particular political party.

He demanded that correct ballots with proper symbols be immediately supplied.

He also questioned the collection of voters’ NID numbers, mobile numbers and Bkash details, expressing concerns over the intent behind it.

Highlighting an uneven playing field in election campaigning, he said the code of conduct is being violated with one-sided campaigns.

He claimed that voter transfers are being conducted strategically in Dhaka and demanded a full list of who authorized these changes and why.

Mirza Fakhrul urged EC to investigate officials exhibiting biased behavior and take immediate action, ensuring equal opportunities for all political parties.

He stressed that all technical flaws in the ballot papers and election procedures must be rectified without delay.

He concluded that while a fair election is possible under the current commission, it requires EC to promptly address its shortcomings and demonstrate neutrality.