In the lead-up to the 13th National Parliamentary elections, the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) has issued a stern warning to Dr. Rezaul Karim, the Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for the Laxmipur-3 (Sadar) constituency. The Commission has made it unequivocally clear that any further violation of electoral conduct rules could result in the annulment of his candidacy.
The warning was formally conveyed through a letter signed by Muhammad Didar Hossain, Assistant Secretary (Law-1) of the EC Secretariat. Although the letter was dated last Friday, it was officially handed to Dr. Karim on Sunday.
According to the EC, Dr. Karim has allegedly engaged in campaigning activities prior to the official commencement of government-sanctioned electoral campaigning. Reports indicate that he offered cash and housing incentives to voters in exchange for their support. The allegations were initially lodged in writing by BNP’s chief election coordinator, Wahid Uddin Chowdhury Happy, to the Election Investigation and Decision Committee. Following an investigation, the committee confirmed the preliminary authenticity of the complaint and submitted a report to the EC on 27 January.
The sequence of events is summarised in the following table:
| Date | Location | Complainant | Allegation | Candidate’s Action/Promise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 Jan | Laxmipur-3, Ward 8, Academy Road | Mahfuza Khatun (85) | Influence over voters | Promised cash and housing |
| 27 Jan | Election Commission, Dhaka | Wahid Uddin Chowdhury Happy (BNP) | Written complaint | Preliminary verification by committee |
The Commission emphasised that such actions contravene Clauses 4(1) and 18 of the 2025 Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates. The warning further cited Section 91K(6G) of the 1972 Representation of the People Order, under which repeated violations may trigger cancellation of candidature along with other punitive measures.
Electoral analysts have described the EC’s warning as a significant step toward curbing undue influence on voters, ensuring transparency, and upholding fair competition among candidates.
Local political observers have welcomed the warning but caution that a mere advisory may be insufficient. They argue that enhanced administrative oversight and stringent action against violators are essential to uphold election integrity. Such measures, they contend, would not only bolster public confidence but also ensure a level playing field for all candidates.