As part of the well-organized preparatory activities that Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defense Force are conducting nationwide to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election ahead of the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum-2026, a colorful preparatory rally was held at Tangail District Stadium today, February 5, 2026 (Thursday).

Present as the chief guest at the rally, the force’s Director General Major General Abdul Motaleb Sajjad Mahmud delivered an important directional speech to the Ansar and VDP members responsible for the 13th National Parliament Election.

In his speech, the Director General emphasized on strengthening mutual connections and unity among the members performing their duties, effective application of collective strength, and preventing any kind of irregularities and aggression by maintaining the highest professionalism.

He said, “In the light of basic training, performing state duties with unity, discipline and dedication is the main basis for ensuring a fair, peaceful and acceptable election.” The rally was simultaneously broadcast live on giant screens in Rajshahi, Naogaon and Mymensingh districts.

The Ansar and VDP members in charge of these districts simultaneously took the directions of the Director General. This coordinated arrangement has created new enthusiasm, confidence and a strong determination to perform state duties as a team among the members in charge, which reflects an uncompromising stance against irregularities and malpractices.

The Director General further said, “The main objective of the series of preparatory gatherings of the force is to further strengthen mutual communication, unity and awareness among the members on duty.

An important and sensitive responsibility like the national election is undoubtedly challenging; however, collective preparation and sense of responsibility play an effective role in facing that challenge.”

He mentioned that the combined strength of the 13 Ansar and VDP members assigned to each polling station will take the form of vocal resistance against any irregularities and aggression.

Stating that the Ansar and Village Defence Force has been working closely with the soil and people of the country since its establishment in 1948, he said, “Today, the people of the whole country are looking with expectation at each member of this force, which was formed with the mentality of serving the nation.

The aspiration of the people is to realize the dream of a new Bangladesh through a free, fair and acceptable election. As the proud bearers of that dream, the Ansar and VDP members will further enrich the history and tradition of the force.”

Laying special emphasis on the protection of personal equipment, prescribed clothing, food management and maintaining discipline while performing duties at the polling station, he said that each member must present himself as a worthy representative of the force.

This will further strengthen the acceptability of Ansar and VDP among the people and public confidence in organizing safe and peaceful elections will increase manifold.

At the end of the rally, the Director General said with firm conviction that giving the nation a transparent, impartial and acceptable election free from the influence of evil forces is not just a responsibility – it is a sacred trust. As a symbol of deep love for the homeland, responsibility for the country and the trust of the people, Ansar and the Village Defence Force will remain steadfast in fulfilling this national duty as in the past.

This preparatory activity will further strengthen the foundation of a strong, professional and democracy-friendly election system in the future – this is the commitment of the force.