In a dramatic turn ahead of the Thirteenth National Parliament elections, independent candidate Shahnewaz Shuvo, contesting from Dinajpur-6 under the Horse symbol, has formally withdrawn, citing serious concerns over administrative impartiality and personal security.
Shuvo made the announcement during a written press conference at Hakimpur Press Club on Tuesday, 27 January at 12:30 pm. Speaking to journalists, he accused local authorities of failing to ensure a fair electoral process and claimed that he had faced threats and harassment throughout his campaign.
According to Shuvo, his official election campaign, scheduled to begin on 23 January following a family grave visitation ceremony, was disrupted when the local BNP president allegedly attempted to attack him. With the help of supporters and local residents, Shuvo narrowly escaped physical harm. Despite reporting the incident to the authorities, he claims no action was taken, leaving him in a state of fear and uncertainty.
Shuvo further alleged administrative negligence in key areas:
| Date | Issue | Authority Response |
|---|---|---|
| 21 January | Requested a copy of the Thirteenth Parliament Election Manual from the Returning Officer | Not provided |
| 22 January | Illegal occupation of his inherited property in Birampur | Complaints to the Emergency National Service, SP, OC, and AC Land went unaddressed |
| 23 January | Attempted commencement of official campaign at family grave site | Authorities remained silent |
| Various dates | Applied for personal firearms licence for self-protection | Licence not issued |
Shuvo stated, “The Returning Officer could not provide a simple manual, my firearms licence has not been granted, my property is being encroached upon at night, and the administration has remained silent throughout. In these circumstances, I cannot continue as an independent candidate. I have lost confidence that this election can be conducted fairly under the current district administration and Returning Officer.”
He added a stern warning, declaring that should any harm come to him or his property, the district administration and the Returning Officer will be held responsible.
The press conference was attended by Golam Mostafizur Rahman Milon, President of the Hakimpur Press Club, Murad Imam Kabir, General Secretary, along with other club members. Shuvo’s withdrawal has raised concerns among local political circles regarding the integrity of the upcoming elections, drawing attention to both electoral fairness and candidate security.
With Shuvo’s exit, the contest in Dinajpur-6 now faces questions about transparency, administrative neutrality, and the ability of independent candidates to safely campaign in a politically charged environment.