The Election Commission (EC) has announced that voting in the Sherpur-3 constituency, which encompasses Sreebardi and Jhenaigati, will not take place today, as previously scheduled. The postponement follows the unfortunate death of one of the contesting candidates in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. A new schedule for the election in this constituency will be announced at a later date.
Akhtar Ahmed, Secretary of the Election Commission, confirmed the development, emphasising that the decision aligns with existing electoral law. “If a valid candidate passes away before polling in any parliamentary constituency, the law mandates that the election in that constituency must be suspended or cancelled,” he stated.
According to the Representation of the People Order (RPO), upon the death of a valid candidate, the returning officer of the respective constituency is required to cancel all ongoing electoral proceedings. Following this, the Election Commission issues a fresh schedule for the election.
Importantly, candidates who were previously declared valid do not need to resubmit their nomination papers or provide a new deposit once the fresh schedule is announced. However, any new eligible individual wishing to contest may submit their nomination within the new timeframe.
This postponement highlights the sensitivity and legal protocols involved in Bangladesh’s electoral process, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly while accounting for unforeseen circumstances. The EC has reassured voters and political parties that the new schedule will provide adequate time for all necessary preparations, maintaining transparency and compliance with legal requirements.
Key Details: Sherpur-3 Election Postponement
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Constituency | Sherpur-3 (Sreebardi & Jhenaigati) |
| Election Status | Postponed |
| Reason | Death of a valid contesting candidate |
| Scheduled Date | To be announced |
| Legal Basis | Representation of the People Order (RPO) |
| Action by Returning Officer | Cancel electoral proceedings |
| Candidate Nomination | Previous valid candidates retain status; new candidates may apply |
The Election Commission has urged political parties, candidates, and voters to remain patient and follow official updates regarding the revised election schedule. The postponement, while unusual, ensures that the electoral process upholds both the law and the principles of democratic representation.