Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman today said that any disorder during vote counting would not reflect the people`s aspirations, saying reports from across the country suggest that citizens would not welcome any `new fascism.`
"The nation had regained its voting rights after nearly 17 and a half years. Everyone I have spoken to today is enthusiastic. Those who try to disrupt this festive atmosphere do not respect democracy," he told reporters at the election office of his constituency Dhaka-15 this afternoon.
Jamaat Ameer said all candidates and supporters not to take the law into their own hands if any irregularities occur. "Complaints must be lodged with the appropriate authorities. There is no scope for anyone to assume the role of law enforcers," he said.
Shafiqur Rahman said that although some polling centres were reportedly occupied temporarily, they were later reopened following intervention by the army.
Referring to democratic practice, he said, "I will do my work and speak my mind-others must be allowed to do theirs. Casting a vote is a citizen`s personal decision. Any coercion is a blatant interference in voting rights."
Jamaat Ameer praised the role of the armed forces, saying their performance so far had been "highly satisfactory."
"Whenever a problem arose, they acted promptly," he said, expressing hope that sincere discharge of duties by the forces would ensure a positive outcome for the nation.
On voter turnout, Dr. Rahman said favourable weather encouraged voters to visit centres throughout the day, with notable participation of young and female voters in the morning.
He declined to comment on possible victory margins in any constituency, saying that discussing results before the completion of voting would interfere with voters` freedom.
Dr. Rahman observed that no election in history had been `100 percent flawless` and said he did not claim this one would be either. "However, so far, there have been no reports of major violence," he added.
Jamaat Ameer said after the end of voting, only authorised government officials and approved agents of candidates be allowed inside the centres. He also urged steps to prevent unnecessary gatherings or tension both inside and outside polling stations.
