Hasnat set to win as rival withdraws

Hasnat Abdullah is set to become Member of Parliament for Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) after his main contender, BNP-backed Md A Jasim Uddin, withdrew from the election, citing widespread irregularities and threats at polling centres.

Jasim made the announcement live shortly after voting concluded, effectively clearing the way for Hasnat Abdullah, representative of 11-party alliance, to likely win the seat.

He alleged that ballot boxes had been tampered with, polling agents were expelled and party activists were attacked while trying to reach polling centres. 

“There have been threats from house to house, and vote buying occurred throughout the day. Considering the situation, I am withdrawing as a candidate for truck symbol to protect the interests of the people of Debidwar,” Jasim said.

He also criticised local authorities, stating that repeated calls for assistance went unanswered. “The administration did not provide any support despite our appeals,” he added.

With Jasim’s withdrawal, Hasnat Abdullah is now poised to secure the Cumilla-4 seat.

SH