A show-cause notice has been issued to BNP candidate for the Pabna-3 (Chatmohar–Bhangura–Faridpur) constituency and central president of the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Krishak Dal, Hasan Zafir Tuhin, on allegations of engaging in premature election campaigning on social media ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election.
The notice was issued on Saturday afternoon by Sanchita Islam, chairperson of the Pabna-3 Election Investigation and Judicial Committee and a judge of the Pabna Senior Civil Judge’s Court.
The notice stated that slogans, still images and videos seeking votes for the Sheaf of Paddy symbol were being circulated from multiple Facebook accounts, including one named “Likhan Sarkar,” on behalf of Hasan Zafir Tuhin, which came to the committee’s attention.
Under Rule 18 of the Political Parties and Candidates’ Code of Conduct, 2025, no candidate is permitted to begin campaigning earlier than three weeks prior to the scheduled polling date. As a result, the online activities were deemed a clear violation of the code of conduct.
Hasan Zafir Tuhin has been directed to appear in person at the office of the Election Investigation and Judicial Committee at 10:30am on Tuesday and submit a written explanation as to why legal action should not be taken against him.
Attempts to contact Hasan Zafir Tuhin by mobile phone for comment were unsuccessful as he did not respond to calls.
However, speaking on his behalf, Krishak Dal central publicity secretary and media manager Shamsur Rahman Shasham said that Hasan Zafir Tuhin was aware of the matter.
He added that Tuhin had instructed his supporters to strictly comply with the electoral code of conduct. Describing the incident as “unintended,” he said an appropriate explanation would be submitted to the committee within the stipulated time.
Notably, ahead of the February 12 election, the Election Commission has adopted a strict stance on regulating campaign activities on social media.
