Speaking at a press conference at BNP chairperson's Gulshan office, he also alleged that the EC is working as per the directives of the ‘prime minister and the government’.
“Our three candidates were arrested over the last two days. It has now become clear that the EC is not going to hold an acceptable and fair election. They’re implementing the government’s blueprint,” he said.
The BNP leader also alleged that the prime minister is trying to control the entire election process as she fears a defeat in a credible election.
He also said the activities of the Election Commission and the government raised questions in public mind whether the election will be held or not.
Fakhrul urged the EC to take steps to stop the arrest of BNP leaders and activists and the filing of fictitious cases against them.
He also demanded immediate release of their arrested candidates and other leaders and activists. “Or else, the Election Commission and the government will be held responsible for any emerging situation.”
The BNP leader said their party will formally lodge complaints with the EC about the arrest of their candidates and party’s leaders and activists on Saturday and Sunday.
He alleged that though they sent a number of letters to the EC with their various observations and demands including the transfer of partisan officials of the police and civil administrations, it has not taken any action yet in this regard.
The BNP leader also opposed the appointment of Harun-ur-Rashid as Narayanganj Superintendent of Police (SP).
Reacting to Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader’s remark that BNP secretary general has no control over the party leaders and activists, he questioned as to why his counterpart is worried about BNP.
“He (Quader) earlier said we wouldn’t get candidates in 300 seats. In reality, we’ve more than one candidate in almost every seat. I would like to urge him to ensure a fair election and level-playing field and then see how many seats they get. They (AL) are indulging in various games as they won’t have more than 30 seats,” Fakhrul observed.
He alleged that tough the ruling party candidates are violating the election code of conduct, the Election Commission is not taking any action against them.
The BNP leader said the lower court is passing some orders on the cases of their leaders and candidates that are putting obstacles to a free and fair election.