Jamaat alleges arbitrary rejection of nomination papers, seeks CEC intervention

The Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has raised concerns over what it described as "arbitrary and excessive actions by some returning officers" during the scrutiny of nomination papers for the upcoming 13th national elections.

In a statement issued today (4 January), Jamaat Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar alleged that nomination papers of several candidates had been rejected on "trivial and legally insignificant grounds" in a number of districts, despite the submission of required information and supporting documents.

He urged the chief election commissioner (CEC) to take immediate steps to prevent nomination papers from being rejected on what he termed "minor and insignificant" grounds, and called on the Election Commission to reinstate the candidatures of those disqualified on such pretexts.

Porwar said, "While scrutiny of nomination papers is underway nationwide, contradictory and questionable practices are being observed in the conduct of certain returning officers."

In some cases, the Jamaat leader claimed rigid interpretations were applied where discretion could reasonably have been exercised, resulting in the cancellation of eligible candidacies.

"It is not appropriate to deliberately cancel candidatures after all necessary information, evidence and documents have been submitted," the statement said, adding that many rejections appeared to be based on issues that "hold no legal importance." 

The party further alleged that such actions were being carried out "at the instigation of certain quarters."

Warning of broader implications, Golam Porwar said continued arbitrary disqualifications would raise serious questions about the possibility of holding a free, fair and transparent election.

The Jamaat leader also appealed to the Election Commission and returning officers to ensure a level playing field by guaranteeing equal opportunities for all candidates.