BNP candidates defy election code of conduct in Sylhet despite official campaign schedule

Despite the official election schedule being announced, two BNP-nominated candidates in Sylhet have continued campaigning in violation of the election code of conduct.

Yesterday (12 December), the candidates and their party activists were seen engaging in public outreach, courtyard meetings and leaflet distribution in different parts of Sylhet.

The schedule for the 13th national election was announced on Thursday (11 December). According to the schedule, election campaigning is set to begin on 22 January and will continue until 7:30am on 10 February, while voting will be held on 12 February.

However, it has been learned that all potential candidates in Sylhet's six constituencies began campaigning even before the schedule was announced and have continued their activities despite the clearly defined campaign timeline set after the announcement.

The electoral code of conduct states that no registered political party, its nominated candidate, an independent candidate, or any person acting on their behalf may begin election campaigning earlier than three weeks before polling day, and campaigning must cease 48 hours before voting begins.

Nevertheless, candidates were seen campaigning in Sylhet the very day after the schedule was announced. 

Yesterday, in Sylhet-1 constituency, BNP candidate and adviser to the party chairperson, Khandaker Abdul Mukhtadir, carried out public outreach after Jummah prayers in Mogolgaon of Sylhet Sadar upazila.

The information was shared in a press release sent to the media yesterday evening on behalf of Mukhtadir.

During the outreach, Mukhtadir said, "A wave of public support has been created in favour of the Sheaf of Paddy in Sylhet Sadar and the metropolitan area. The final success of this public wave will come by making the Sheaf of Paddy victorious in the 12 February election."

He further said, "On 12 February, all polling centres must be guarded. Everyone must remain alert so that no evil force can interfere with the people's right to vote freely. The people of this country have ousted the fascist government to reclaim their rights to vote and food. The people will no longer surrender to muscle power."

Later on that night, Mukhtadir also held an exchange meeting with members of the Hindu community in Ward No 27 of the city.

Meanwhile, another adviser to the BNP chairperson and the party's candidate in Sylhet-4 constituency, Ariful Haque Chowdhury, conducted public outreach and a roadside meeting yesterday in Ali Gaon New Union of Gowainghat upazila, organised by BNP and its affiliated bodies at Kowar Bazar.

This information was shared through a press release issued by Ariful Haque Chowdhury's media wing.

During the outreach, Ariful Haque Chowdhury said, "I would not have believed how neglected and deprived of development these areas are if I had not seen it with my own eyes. If the BNP forms the government and you make me victorious, Insha'Allah you will see visible change within a year."

In another instance, Sylhet Metropolitan BNP President Rezaul Hasan Qayes Lodi distributed leaflets on behalf of Khandaker Mukhtadir yesterday afternoon in the Darshan Deuri area of the city.

Attempts were made this morning to contact Khandaker Abdul Mukhtadir and Ariful Haque Chowdhury by mobile phone regarding the allegations of campaigning in violation of the code of conduct, but neither responded.

Speaking on the matter, Sylhet Additional District Magistrate Saeeda Parveen said, "No form of campaigning is allowed at this time. Campaigning before 20 January is illegal. Action will be taken against anyone who violates the rules."

"Our executive magistrates are in the field to monitor whether the electoral code of conduct is being violated. If you receive any information, please let us know," she added.