BNP Candidate Disqualified, Hasnat Remains Eligible

The nomination of BNP candidate Manzurul Ahsan Munshi for the Comilla-4 parliamentary constituency has been officially annulled by the Election Commission (EC). On Saturday, the Commission upheld an appeal against Munshi’s nomination, effectively ending his candidacy in the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections.

Initially, the Returning Officer had declared Munshi’s nomination valid. However, Hasnat Abdullah, the candidate representing the Jatiya Nagarik Party (JNP), filed an appeal with the EC challenging this decision. Abdullah’s appeal alleged that Munshi had concealed information regarding outstanding loans and financial liabilities when submitting his nomination papers.

Following a hearing at the Election Commission auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka, the EC reviewed the evidence and accepted Abdullah’s appeal. Consequently, Munshi’s nomination was declared invalid.

Meanwhile, Munshi had also filed an appeal against the acceptance of Abdullah’s nomination, seeking to challenge his rival’s eligibility. The Election Commission rejected Munshi’s appeal, confirming that Abdullah’s candidacy remains valid.

The situation in Comilla-4 now stands as follows:

This ruling has intensified political interest in Comilla-4, a constituency considered strategically important in the national elections. Analysts note that Munshi’s disqualification could alter campaign dynamics and potentially affect voter sentiment in the constituency.

Election law experts emphasise that the decision underscores the importance of transparency in candidate declarations. They argue that full disclosure of financial and legal obligations is crucial to maintaining a fair electoral process and upholding public trust in the democratic system.

As the 13th Jatiya Sangsad elections approach, the Comilla-4 constituency will now see Hasnat Abdullah as the officially recognised candidate alongside other approved contestants. The outcome of this case highlights the Election Commission’s active role in scrutinising nominations and ensuring compliance with electoral regulations, reinforcing the principle that candidates must meet all eligibility criteria to participate.

The controversy also serves as a reminder to political parties to vet their nominees carefully, as failure to comply with disclosure requirements can lead to disqualification and impact broader electoral strategies.