Expressing concern over the deteriorating law-and-order situation, BNP Chairperson’s Adviser and former Opposition Chief Whip Zainul Abdin Farroque has said that to restore stability, the country urgently needs a freely and fairly elected government under the leadership of Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.He made the remarks on Tuesday (18 November) afternoon while campaigning for the BNP’s election symbol ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ in various wards of Chhatarpaiya Union in Senbagh and Sonaimuri upazilas of Noakhali.

Farroque said, “This time, voting will take place during the day—not at night. There is no doubt that a free and fair election will be held. Sheikh Hasina is no longer in power, and neither are her so-called ‘goons’. People will be able to go to the polling centers without fear and cast their votes.”

The former Chief Whip alleged that a conspiracy is underway:
“A certain group is trying to mislead our mothers and sisters—telling them that voting for them will guarantee a place in heaven. I want to say clearly: selling tickets to Paradise is meaningless. Only Almighty Allah decides that. Do not go door-to-door spreading confusion. May Allah never bring to power those who strangle democracy after assuming office.”

Calling for unity around the BNP’s election symbol, he added, “The ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ does not belong to me—it belongs to Shaheed Zia. It belongs to Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman. You may not like me personally, but if you believe in Ziaur Rahman’s ideals, then put aside all differences and gather under the banner of the Sheaf of Paddy. Do not oppose it.”

Addressing voters, Farroque further said, “Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman have entrusted me with the Sheaf of Paddy. If a free and fair election is held, Inshallah, Tarique Rahman will become the next Prime Minister of Bangladesh. And if you vote for me, I will become your elected Member of Parliament.”