The political atmosphere in Thakurgaon-1 has heated up significantly on the eve of the upcoming by-election, with the principal rival candidates from the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami holding separate press conferences to level mutual accusations of electoral code violations, intimidation of supporters, and undue influence. Mirza Faisal Amin is contesting the seat for the BNP, while Delwar Hossain is running as the Jamaat candidate. Both sides have strongly denied the allegations while demanding a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
The Thakurgaon-1 constituency—encompassing the Sadar, Ruhia, and Bhulli areas—fell vacant after BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir took oath as the honorable President. With the high-stakes by-election drawing near, both parties have pushed aggressively through the final hours of campaigning to secure a decisive victory. However, the last-minute exchange of complaints has added a layer of tension to the otherwise enthusiastic local electorate.
During a press conference held at a local Chinese restaurant on Wednesday afternoon, Jamaat candidate Delwar Hossain alleged that BNP activists had been intimidating 'Sheaf of Paddy' supporters and ordinary voters by visiting their homes since the campaign began. He claimed his mass contact events were repeatedly obstructed and accused his opponent of exerting improper influence over local government officials in breach of electoral regulations. Conversely, during a briefing at the district BNP office, BNP candidate Mirza Faisal Amin categorically rejected these assertions, turning the tables by accusing Jamaat-e-Islami of attempting to create unrest and confusion in the field.
Despite the political friction, the Election Commission has completed all administrative arrangements for the polling, which is scheduled to take place from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Thursday. According to election officials, a total of 516,138 voters are registered to cast their ballots across 989 booths located in 185 polling centers throughout the constituency. Authorities have assured that comprehensive measures are in place to ensure a peaceful, transparent, and orderly voting experience.
To maintain stringent security and law and order, a robust multi-tier security apparatus has been deployed across the constituency. Official reports indicate that 21 platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), 2,727 police personnel, and 2,405 Ansar members will perform duty on election day. In addition, electoral inquiry committees, along with judicial and executive magistrates, are actively patrolling the field to swiftly handle any violations of the law.
Transparency remains a core focus, with extensive domestic and international observation teams monitoring the polls. Alongside local observers, four foreign observers are among the 177 total monitors overseeing the electoral proceedings. The administration has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any form of electoral malpractice, aiming to guarantee a safe environment where citizens can exercise their democratic franchise without fear.
