Two mayoral candidates, out of seven, have demanded deployment of the Army for the Barishal City Corporation (BCC) election to ensure a free and fair poll, as they have no faith in the police.

The BNP's mayoral candidate, Mujibor Rahman Sarwar, supported by the 20-Party Alliance, called for deployment of the Army at polling centres and surrounding areas on the polling day.

While campaigning in the Polashpur area of the city, Sarwar said people have confidence in the Army rather than civilian law enforcers.

The absence of armed forces may result in the risk of snatching of ballot boxes, occupying of polling centres or other kinds of lawlessness.

Iqbal Hosen Tapos, a BCC mayoral candidate supported by the JP, also called for deployment of the Army.

During campaigning at Balurmath in the city, he said the present police administration has failed to tackle troublemakers with a strong hand.

So, deployment of the Army as a striking force is essential for a free and fair election in a secured atmosphere, he added.

The AL candidate, Serniabat Sadik Abdullah, said if the EC needs the Army, it has the right to deploy it.

On other hand, many voters, have expressed the same view. Abdullah and Rahima Khatun, two voters of the vulnerable centres of Amanatganj and Kawnia areas of the city, said deployment of the Army, at least as mobile patrol teams, on election day would instill confidence in the people.