Independent candidate Tasnim Jara has filed an appeal with the Election Commission (EC) challenging the cancellation of her nomination papers for the Dhaka-9 constituency in the 13th National Parliamentary Election.
Speaking to journalists after submitting her appeal at the Dhaka regional EC booth in Agargaon on Monday at around 4:00pm, Jara said: “We will continue the legal battle.”
She added: “Within just a day and a half, nearly 5,000 people spontaneously signed in support of us, showed us immense love, and voluntarily set up booths and worked as volunteers. Out of respect for this support, we will continue our legal fight. The people who signed want me to be able to contest the election within such a short time frame. That is why we have filed this appeal. We will continue the legal process.”
Jara’s lawyer, Arman Hossain, expressed confidence in the appeal, saying: “Legally, there is a 100% possibility of success. We have every reason to be hopeful. We are confident that Dr. Tasnim Jara will once again be able to contest the election in Dhaka-9 as a candidate of the people.”
Jara’s nomination papers were cancelled on January 3 by the returning officer of Dhaka district. Following the decision, she announced to appeal against the decision.
Under the revised election schedule, appeals against returning officers’ decisions can be filed from January 5 to 9 and will be disposed of between January 10 and 18.
The final date for withdrawal of candidacy is January 20, with the returning officers set to publish the final list of candidates and allocate election symbols on January 21. Election campaigning will start on January 22 and continue until 7:30am on February 10, while voting is scheduled for Thursday, February 12, from 7:30am to 4:30pm.