The EC yesterday allocated elections symbols to the four candidates of Narayanganj 5 by-election scheduled for June 26
In violation of the election code of conduct, Jatiya Party-backed candidate Selim Osman launched his electioneering in the upcoming Narayanganj 5 by-election with posters and banners decorating the constituency.
Four candidates of the by-poll yesterday started their formal election campaigning in the by-election as the returning officer allocated their election symbols.
The Election Commission says if any candidate starts election campaign before the scheduled timeframe and hang any posters, banners and put up billboards it is in complete violation of the electoral code of conduct.
Visiting Bandar area in Narayanganj this correspondent found coloured banners, sponsored by Secretary of Bandar Thana Awami League and seeking vote for Selim Osman, hanging over roads. The personal secretary of late MP Nasim Osman also sponsored some banners for Selim.
The EC yesterday allocated elections symbols to the four candidates of Narayanganj 5 by-election scheduled for June 26.
Returning Officer Mihir Sarwar Morshed yesterday told the Dhaka Tribune that if anyone put forward any allegations to the returning officer’s office about the use of coloured posters, the commission would take actions.
When his attention was drawn to coloured banners and posters put up by Selim’s supporters the returning officer said: “We have asked the authorities concerned to remove all posters, banners and billboards.
“I myself did not see such banners or posters of Selim Osman.”
According to electoral code of conduct, candidates can hang only
black-and-white posters with their photos and symbols during election campaign.
EC officials said if a candidate violates the electoral code of conduct, the EC’s electoral enquiry committee will investigate the matter and recommends cancellation of his/her candidature.
Independent candidate SM Akram got a Pineapple as his election symbol, Jatiya Party candidate Osman was allocated a Plough, Krishak Sramik Janata League candidate Shafiqul Islam Delowar Towel and independent candidate advocate Mamun Sirajul Majid was given a Shrimp.
The constituency fell vacant following the death of Jatiya Party lawmaker Nasim Osman, elder brother of Awami League lawmaker Shamim Osman.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
