Awami League has changed its mind and given its nomination to the party’s rebel candidate in Shariatpur municipality.
The ruling party extended its support to Farroque Ahmed Talukdar yesterday, after the previously nominated candidate Rafiqul Islam Kotowal’s candidacy was cancelled because he is accused of defaulting loan at Janata Bank’s Karwan Bazar branch.
District AL General Secretary Anol Kumar Dey submitted the party’s final nomination form, along with a signed letter from party chief Sheikh Hasina, to the district returning officer yesterday.
Sources said even though Kotowal had appealed against the decision and hearing on his appeal is scheduled to be heard today, Awami League decided to switch its support as it was unlikely that the returning officer’s decision would be overturned.
Anol said the fresh support comes as per Sheikh Hasina’s directives, adding that all party members would work for the Boat electoral symbol in the December 30 election.
Returning Officer Abullah Al Mamun said legal steps would be taken after discussing the issue with the Election Commission.
The new nominee, Farroque Ahmed Talukdar, urged all local AL activists to not be confused about the change and work together to ensure a victory for Awami League.
