Threat against Faridpur-2 candidate sparks outrage

A circulating audio clip containing an alleged threat to burn the vehicle of a Faridpur-2 (Nagarkanda-Saltha) parliamentary candidate has triggered concern among local voters, political groups and law enforcement.

The threat was reportedly directed at Shah Akram Ali, also known as Dhala Huzur, who is contesting the election under the banner of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish. The authenticity of the clip has not yet been independently verified.

Local residents said the recording features a conversation between Rabiul Islam, known locally as Rabi Member and identified as a BNP supporter from Bongram village, and Maulana Shoyaib Islam, a supporter of the rickshaw-symbol candidate in the area. 

Shoyaib Islam had planned to bring Allama Shah Akram Ali to Bongram for campaign activities, which Rabiul Islam allegedly opposed.

In the clip, a voice said to be Rabiul Islam is heard warning that bringing the candidate to the village could create trouble, allegedly adding that the vehicle could be set on fire.

Rabiul Islam denied making any such threat. He claimed the audio had been distorted and said Shoyaib Islam attempted to hold a campaign event at a private residence without the owner’s permission, which he protested.

Mufti Syed Mustafizur Rahman, spokesperson for Shah Akram Ali, said their campaign had remained peaceful and alleged that certain groups were trying to disrupt their activities. He termed the reported threat a violation of the election code of conduct and urged the administration to intervene.

Nagarkanda Police Station Officer-in-Charge Rasul Samdani Azad said police had stepped up patrols and would take action once a written complaint was filed.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Mahmudul Hasan said security measures, including night patrols and intelligence monitoring, had been reinforced.

Nagarkanda Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mehraj Sharbin said any written complaint would be forwarded to the Electoral Investigation Committee.

NKB Nayan/MHK/NMA