Independent candidate alleges fear and intimidation in Faridpur-4 election

Independent candidate AAM Mujhid Beg has alleged widespread intimidation and fear in the Faridpur-4 constituency ahead of the national election, claiming that charged accused are openly gathering and creating an unstable election environment.

Mujhid Beg, contesting with the football symbol, made the allegations at a press conference held on Sunday afternoon at his election monitoring office in the Hajiganj Aleper Mor area of Charbhadrasan upazila.

He said a major political party—without naming it—was threatening and harassing his supporters using weapons, filing false cases, and involving the police to intimidate activists. He also alleged that banners and festoons were being torn down and campaign activities disrupted.

“The election environment in Faridpur-4 is not improving. There is no level playing field,” Mujhid Beg said. “Despite the government’s promise of a fair and historic election, the situation on the ground is alarming.”

According to him, the situation is most severe in Sadar Union and Krishnanagar Union of Sadarpur upazila, as well as several unions in Bhanga upazila. He claimed that women workers and supporters were being threatened with attacks and legal cases, forcing many to stay indoors.

“Many of our workers have been taken from their homes and later released just to frighten them so they do not support me,” he said. “Our leaders and activists are being threatened everywhere. People are afraid to even file complaints.”

The independent candidate further alleged that accused individuals named in charge sheets, warrants and criminal cases had returned to the area during the election period and were openly creating fear. “They had stayed away for a long time. Now they have come back with political backing to create unrest,” he said.

He also accused rival candidates of repeatedly violating the election code of conduct, claiming that independent candidates were being treated differently. “In some wards, candidates have set up five to ten camps, which is a clear violation. The administration is ignoring these violations,” he added.

Mujhid Beg urged the administration to act impartially to ensure a free and fair election. “If those using muscle power and threatening voters are not brought under control, a fair election will not be possible in this constituency,” he said.

Responding to the allegations, District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Kamrul Hasan Molya said election monitoring teams and magistrates were active in the field.

“We have inquiry teams working on the ground. If any written complaint is submitted, action will be taken immediately in line with the law,” he said.