People to decide their fate for the next 50 years through the February 12 polls: Fouzul

Adviser to the Ministries of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources; Road Transport and Bridges; and Railways Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan today said the people of the country will shape their destiny for the next 50 years through the national parliamentary election scheduled for February 12.

He said voters will be able to cast their ballots freely in both the general election and the referendum, adding that no one will be able to obstruct them as all necessary arrangements have been put in place. Fouzul made the remarks while inspecting a specially designed “Voter Gari” (Super Caravan) at Gor-E-Shahid Boro Maidan in Dinajpur this morning.

Fouzul Kabir Khan said that in the past people were deprived of their right to vote, and the July Mass Uprising by students and the general public was a reflection of protests against that deprivation. “Now the time has come for people to exercise their voting rights and elect candidates of their choice,” he said.

The adviser noted that reforms are essential to maintain a balance of power and to put an end to enforced disappearances, murders and killings. “That is why people should support reforms by voting ‘Yes’. However, those who do not want reforms are also free to vote ‘No’. There is no compulsion,” he added.

He said the reform process would continue if the people deliver a verdict in favour of the reform proposals through the referendum.

Fouzul also said the upcoming national election will be held under a neutral, non-partisan government, ensuring that no one can prevent voters from casting their ballots.

Noting that Dinajpur is home to many minority and ethnic voters, he said the government has instructed the local administration and police to ensure that they can exercise their voting rights without any hindrance. He called on all concerned to cooperate in ensuring a peaceful election.

Dinajpur Deputy Commissioner Md Rafiqul Islam presided over the event.

Among others present as special guests were Energy and Mineral Resources Division Secretary Mohammad Saiful Islam; Bangladesh Oil, Gas and Mineral Corporation Chairman Md Rezanur Rahman; Department of Mass Communication Director General (current charge) Md Abdul Jalil; Rangpur Deputy Commissioner Md Enamul Ahsan; and Dinajpur Superintendent of Police Md Jedan Al Musa.