Gazipur City Polls: It’s responsibility of EC, govt to hold fair polls
Azamat Ullah Khan is running for mayor in Gazipur city on Awami League ticket. His key opponent Zaida Khatun, an independent candidate, is the mother of suspended Gazipur mayor Zahangir Alam. The Daily Star’s Partha Pratim Bhattacharjee and Aashiq Abdullah Apu talked to them about their aspirations and plans.
My victory in the election will depend on what voters really want. At the same time, we as candidates want to see a free and fair election.
TDS: You had not been involved in active politics. Do you think the electoral battle is going to be tough for you?
Zaida Khatun: I never held any post in a political party. For doing politics, it doesn't matter whether you have a party post or not. But if politics means serving the people, I have always done this. My elder brother was involved in the Awami League's politics. I have always asked my son Zahangir Alam to get involved in the Awami League's politics and serve the people.
My victory in the election will depend on what voters really want. At the same time, we as candidates want to see a free and fair election. It is the responsibility of the Election Commission and the government to ensure a credible election.
TDS: Do you think the battle of ballots against Azamat Ullah Khan will be an unequal contest as the entire Awami League is backing him?
Zaida Khatun: Azamat Ullah will not get support from all Awami League activists here. I think people's love will be reflected in the polls results. The question is not about who is getting support from the ruling party. The main question is neutrality.
It would be bad if a candidate after receiving all kinds of cooperation commits an offence. It would be unfortunate.
TDS: How optimistic are you about your victory?
Zaida Khatun: I hope the results would be positive for me if the election is held in a free and fair manner and the people can cast their votes.
TDS: What could be the main challenge for you in the upcoming polls?
Zaida Khatun: The person who is talking about honesty publicly shouldn't get involved in dishonest activities behind the scenes. Every candidate should accept the people's verdict and it will be better for democracy.
TDS: What would be your priority if you are voted to Gazipur mayor?
Zaida Khatun: I want to complete the unfinished work of my son. My son constructed around 800km of roads in the city. No one else could carry out such development work in the last 18 years. Gazipur city will be a more livable city if the dilapidated roads can be repaired. I along with my son want to present a livable Gazipur city to the future generation.