Heated Debate Over Paddy Sheaf Candidacy in Khulna, Counter Claims by Two Leaders
A dramatic situation has arisen over who will be the BNP candidate for a key seat in Khulna in the upcoming election. Although one person was sent a letter from the center, another influential local leader is claiming himself as the real candidate of 'Paddy Sheaf'. This confusion came to light during scrutiny of nominations at the Returning Officer's office on Saturday (January 03) afternoon. Both leaders displayed the party nomination paper or 'letter' in their possession, which put the officials present in an embarrassing situation.
Mystery of Double Letters
It is known that two separate letters signed by the party's Secretary General are in the hands of two candidates. Among them, one is a former MP and the other is the current president of Metropolitan BNP. The Returning Officer said complications have arisen as there are letters in the name of two persons for the same seat and same symbol. He has sought instructions from the Election Commission headquarters to resolve the matter. No immediate solution was found even after contacting the party's central office.
Division and Clash Among Activists
Grassroots activists have split into two factions over this conflict of leaders. A chase and counter-chase incident took place between supporters of the two sides at Shibbari Mor in the city this morning. At least 5 people were injured in this. Police brought the situation under control by charging batons. One side is chanting slogans calling the other 'agent' and 'rebel', which is having a negative impact on the party's election campaign.
Waiting for Central Decision
The Organizing Secretary in charge of Khulna BNP said it could be a misunderstanding or a communication error. The party high command is aware of the matter and the final decision will be announced soon. He called upon the activists to remain calm and respectful of party discipline. He warned that everyone must work for whoever's name appears in the final list.
Reaction of Voters
General voters are disappointed seeing this infighting within the party. They say if candidates fight among themselves before the election, how will they maintain peace in the area if elected? Civil society representatives feel that major parties should be more transparent and careful in nominating candidates. If this stalemate is not resolved quickly, the opposition alliance's vote bank could collapse.
