The Election Commission (EC) has expressed satisfaction with the explanation of Awami League nominated mayoral candidate Azmat Ullah in the upcoming Gazipur City Corporation polls regarding the violation of election code of conduct.
Azmat Ullah's statement was taken in the presence of CEC and other election commissioners at Nirbachan Bhaban in Dhaka around 3pm on Sunday.
In this regard, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal said Azmat Ullah has humbly expressed his regret. “We are satisfied with his statement,” he added.
He said that Azmat Ullah expressed regret in case of any mistakes made out of ignorance. A couple of meetings were held outside the city area with the opinion of the local administration, Azmat Ullah had said.
Regarding the complaint of violation of the electoral code of conduct by submitting the nomination papers with more than five people in their entourage, the chief election commissioner said that on the day of submitting papers, a number of councillors also brought their teams for a showdown.
“We have issued a show cause notice. He gave his explanation in this regard. We have yet to make a decision. But I am considering his statement,” he added.
The CEC said: “Our electoral culture has been developing for many years. People sometimes become over enthusiastic during the submission of nomination papers. It can't be turned off at the flick of a switch. But that will require cooperation. I will try to enforce it. Gradually a good culture will develop, I hope.”
The CEC said that the issue of minister-state minister was not discussed in the meeting with Azmat Ullah. He said that Azmat said it happened outside the city area. Azmat said that he will ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future.
Regarding the action of the EC, the CEC said, a letter has already been sent to the general secretary of the party, the cabinet secretary to remind the members of parliament, ministers and state ministers to follow the code of conduct.
He said: “We are doing everything necessary from our side. Hopefully, this will create an awareness. With the upcoming five city elections, an example helps the rest learn.”
Claiming that a political rally in Khulna was also resisted by the returning officer with the help of the party, he said: “The political party was cooperating. The response of political leaders is positive.”