Candidates hiding loan default, dual citizenship to face action even after polls: EC Masud
He says a new provision has been added to the RPO, empowering the EC to act against elected representatives even after the polls
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud warned that candidates who conceal information about loan defaults, dual citizenship or other disqualifications will face action even after the election if the allegations are proven.
Speaking to reporters at his office this afternoon (26 January), Masud said anyone found to have hidden such information would not be eligible to remain a member of parliament.
"Many candidates accused of being loan defaulters reschedule their loans during the election period to obtain legal cover, but then stop making payments," he said.
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He went on to say, "Article 66(4) of the constitution allows action if such disqualification is detected after the election. However, in practice, many cases are not forwarded to parliament, allowing loan defaulters to remain in office. This is unhealthy for the nation."
He said a new provision has been added to the Representation of the People Order (RPO), empowering the Election Commission to act against elected representatives even after the polls if they are found to have concealed disqualifying information.
"The commission can take action on its own initiative or based on credible reports," he added.
Commissioner Masud also said providing false information regarding dual citizenship would lead to disqualification.
"If it is proven that incorrect information has been submitted, the person's MP status will be cancelled," he said.
