BNP candidate pulls out of Narayanganj-5 race over security concerns
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A BNP candidate has announced his withdrawal from the election in the Narayanganj-5 constituency, citing concerns over his personal and family security.
Masuduzzaman, the BNP-nominated candidate for the seat comprising Narayanganj Sadar and Bandar Upazilas, made the announcement at a media briefing at the Narayanganj Press Club on Tuesday afternoon.
He said his family had been worried about security since he declared his candidacy, adding that their concerns deepened following the shooting of Inqilab Moncho leader Osman Sharif Hadi in Dhaka last week.
“Since announcing my candidacy, my family members have been worried about our safety. After the shooting of Osman Hadi in Dhaka, they became even more frightened,” Masuduzzaman said.
He added that the decision to withdraw was made at the request of his family.
Masuduzzaman said he had tried to contact the party’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman to inform him of the decision but had been unable to reach him.
“This is the first time I am announcing this publicly. I will explain the matter to the party as well.”
Masuduzzaman’s sudden announcement appeared to take even his own supporters by surprise. Several BNP leaders and activists present at the press conference expressed frustration and disappointment over the decision.
Former joint general secretary of the BNP’s Narayanganj Metropolitan unit Nurul Haque Chowdhury said party activists had invested significant effort in the campaign.
“You cannot leave BNP leaders and activists like this. We stood beside you with many hopes and aspirations. We do not accept this decision,” he said.
Naeem Khandaker, member secretary of the metropolitan unit of Zia Social Welfare Council, said Masuduzzaman had attended a pre-scheduled programme in Shahidnagar shortly before making the announcement.
“He took part in a planned programme just a short while ago and then came here to make this announcement. We are surprised by this decision. We were not informed in advance,” he said.