DHAKA: Speakers at a press conference claimed that ruling alliance Jatiya Party candidate Selim Osman is threatening another candidate SM Akram centering Narayanganj-5 by-polls.

Gono Forum President Dr Kamal Hossain and Nagarik Oikya Convener Mahmudur Rahman Manna were among others present others at the press meet.

The speakers also expressed their concern over the free, fair and credible elections scheduled to be held on June 26.

They have already written an open letter to Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmed in this regard.

At the press meet, Dr Kamal claimed that the henchmen of Jatiya Party candidate in Narayanganj-5 by-polls Selim Osman are threatening Narayanganj people not to go against Selim.

He also alleged that the people of Selim Osman are offering money to the voters which are against the law.

The voters are being threatened and they are living under high risk situation, they added.

They also said that the CEC is now staying in Kenya so the open letter was issued.

Mentioning the criticism on CEC Rakibuddin’s absence during some of the previous by-polls, Dr Kamal hoped that the CEC would take necessary initiatives to make the by-polls free, fare and well acceptable to all.

According to Mahmudur Rahman Manna, the election code of conduct is being violated in a wide range.

The presiding officers and other officials of the by-polls are facing many threats from the followers of Selim, the speakers claimed.

They also criticized the abduction and murder of seven people in Narayanganj and hoped a fair election in the area.

BDST: 1710 HRS, JUN 24, 2014