EC Issues Stern Warning to Lakshmipur-3 Jamaat Candidate

On the eve of the 13th national parliamentary elections, the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has issued a strict warning to Dr Rezaul Karim, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for the Lakshmipur-3 (Sadar) constituency. The Commission has cautioned that any further violation of the electoral code of conduct could result in the cancellation of his candidacy.

The warning was confirmed through a letter signed by Mohammad Didar Hosain, Deputy Secretary (Law-1) of the EC Secretariat. The letter, dated last Friday, was officially delivered to the candidate on Sunday.

According to the EC, Dr Karim was found to have conducted election campaigning before the official campaign period began and allegedly promised voters cash incentives and housing in exchange for their support. The initial complaints were formally submitted to the Electoral Inquiry and Adjudication Committee by BNP’s chief election coordinator, Wahid Uddin Chowdhury Happy. After investigation, the committee validated the preliminary truth of the allegations and submitted its report to the EC on 27 January.

A summary of the incidents is presented below:

The Commission stated that these actions contravene Rules 4(1) and 18 of the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates, 2025. The stern warning clarified that any future breach could lead to penalties under Section 91K(6g) of the Representation of the People Order, 1972, including possible disqualification from the election.

Electoral experts have emphasised the significance of this intervention, noting that such measures are essential to uphold election integrity, reduce undue influence on voters, and ensure a fair contest among candidates. By issuing this warning, the EC has reiterated that legal measures will be taken against any candidate who violates the electoral code, which is crucial for the transparency and legitimacy of the 13th parliamentary elections.

Local political observers, however, argue that the warning alone may not suffice. They call for enhanced administrative oversight to guarantee maximum transparency in the election process. Strict enforcement against violators, they contend, will not only restore public confidence but also ensure that all candidates compete on a level playing field under the law.