Staff Reporter :
Election Commission Joint Secretary and also Returning Officer of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Abul Kashem on Sunday warned that stern action would be taken if irregularities were found against anyone, including the candidates, during the upcoming city corporation elections.
The returning officer came up with the warning after an allegation was brought against lawmaker and Awami League Presidium Member Advocate Sahara Khatun for violating the electoral code of conduct.
The allegation was brought against Sahara Khatun after she inaugurated an election campaign office of DNCC mayor candidate Atiqul Islam at Uttara Sector 4 in Dhaka on Sunday morning.
According to electoral code of conduct, persons who enjoy government facilities and any government officials and employees will not be able to participate in the election campaign.
“No one can violate electoral code of conduct,” he said, adding, “Dhaka dwellers are now witnessing congenial atmosphere for a fair election. We want a festive atmosphere to hold the polls.”
Responding to a question whether Sahara Khatun, in fact, has violated the electoral code, the returning officer said, “We will talk to you (journalists) after discussing the matter with the executive magistrate.”
If anyone is found at fault, the election commission will take action as per its rules, he said.
According to the commission’s rules, he said, the candidates can start campaign for the DNCC elections from January 10.
Atiqul Islam has just opened the election camp and he has not started campaigning yet, Abul Kashem said.
