Release of the docudrama on the life of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is a violation of electoral code of conduct, says BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.
“According to section 12 of the electoral code of conduct, no promotion can be launched three weeks before voting. At the same time, according to the section 10 (e), no statement can be given on the candidate's photo or candidacy endorsing them. Is not this documentary promotional?” he told a press conference at the party’s Naya Paltan headquarters on Saturday.
Rizvi further said: “Section 7 of the electoral code of conduct imposes restrictions on the use of poster stating that no poster can be put up anywhere in the city corporation and municipal areas.
“However, posters containing the picture of the prime minister of the docudrama have been put up in the cinemas located in city corporation areas.”
Also Read- 'Hasina: A Daughter's Tale' released in Dhaka, Chittagong
He demanded immediate withdrawal of the docudrama from the cinemas.
The docudrama “Hasina: A Daughter’s Tale,” was released in four cinemas on Friday-- Star Cineplex, Blockbuster Cinemas, and Modhumita Cinema Hall in Dhaka, and Silver Screen in Chittagong.
Rizvi said Sheikh Hasina is a candidate of the upcoming 11th general election. Since she is a political figure the movie revolves her experiences in personal life and political career, which is a serious violation of code of conduct.
He said the prime minister interviewed aspiring nomination seekers at her official residence, Ganabhaban, which is also a breach of code of conduct.
The BNP leader said the ruling Awami League, including the prime minister, is violating electoral code of conduct and the Election Commission is not taking any action against them.
He said development activities taken up by the government are still being aired on TV screens installed by the City Corporation across Dhaka and different television channels.
He alleged the Election Commission is not taking any measures even after so many incidents of violation of code of conduct.
“A level playing field has not been created for the election thanks to the silent role of the commission,” Rizvisaid, adding that if the situation continues it is not possible to hold a free and fair election.