Election campaign on government property, Handfan candidate fined 10,000 Taka

In a significant enforcement of electoral rules, a mobile court in Bhunapur, Tangail-2 constituency, has imposed a 10,000 Taka fine on Hafez Maulana Monowar Hossain Sagor, the parliamentary candidate nominated by Islami Andolan Bangladesh under the Handfan symbol. The fine was levied for violating the country’s electoral code of conduct by establishing a campaign office on government property.

The proceedings took place on Monday, 26 December, under the supervision of Executive Magistrate and Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Rajib Hossain, who presided over the mobile court. According to local administration sources, the candidate had set up his election office within a market owned by the Upazila Parishad, located in the Bhunapur bus stand area, which constitutes public property.

“The establishment of a campaign office on government property constitutes a clear breach of the electoral code of conduct,” Md. Rajib Hossain stated. “Consequently, the candidate has been fined 10,000 Taka. We urge all candidates to strictly adhere to the rules to ensure free and fair elections.”

Officials further noted that the market, where the office was erected, is publicly owned and managed by the local council, and is not permitted for any partisan activities. Following the complaint, the administration acted swiftly to inspect the premises, confirm the violation, and impose the penalty through the mobile court system.

Local residents reported seeing party supporters actively involved in setting up banners and posters in and around the office, which drew the attention of election monitors. Authorities stressed that such infractions undermine the integrity of the electoral process and could invite further sanctions if repeated.

The following table summarises key details of the case:

The administration has warned that any recurrence of such violations will be dealt with more severely, in line with electoral regulations. Authorities also encouraged all political parties and candidates to maintain transparency and respect public property during the ongoing election campaigns.

This enforcement highlights the vigilance of local authorities in upholding electoral discipline and protecting public spaces from being used for partisan activities, ahead of the national polls.