Breach of electoral code: Shamim Osman responds to show-cause notice in court

Shamim Osman, candidate for the Narayanganj-4 constituency, appeared in court on Sunday to address a show-cause notice for violating the electoral code of conduct ahead of the January 7 polls.

Shamim Osman appeared in the court of Joint District and Session Judge Kazi Yasin Habib on Sunday morning and addressed the show cause notice.

On Saturday, the commission issued a show-cause notice for breaching the electoral code of conduct.

Regarding the show-cause notice, Shamim Osman said: "The commission issued a notice for the peace marches initiated by the Awami League in Fatullah and Siddhirganj, Narayanganj. These were held in response to BNP-Jamaat’s arson and violence nationwide. The marches, led by the Awami League and its affiliates, symbolized peace and supported the boat symbol (Awami League’s electoral symbol). As a political event, it's understandable why the Election Commission sent me this notice.

"I am grateful to the Election Commission. They have shown that under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, they are an independent body. It's unusual to see a candidate summoned based on just a few newspaper reports. I am supposed to be sad rather I am happy. I believe the Election Commission can conduct a fair election in Bangladesh. Remember, I followed the rules when I submitted my nomination papers with my son,” he added.

Shamim Osman, while requesting the Election Commission, said: “Through the Joint District Judge (2nd), I have requested the Election Commission to take strict action against those who are committing arson and setting fires across the country to disrupt the election. This is to ensure that people can vote at the polling stations as per their wish.”

On Saturday, the Election Commission (EC) served show-cause notices to Shamim Osman for violating the electoral code of conduct ahead of the January 7 polls.

Joint District and Session Judge Kazi Yasin Habib issued the notice and asked Shamim Osman to explain his position in person or send a representative to the court at 11am on Sunday.

The notice stated: "A procession and a street rally were organized in the Talla area of Narayanganj on Friday in support of Shamim Osman while carrying festoons of the Boat symbol and musical instruments, obstructing the movement of transports and pedestrians. Such actions are clear violations of the election code of conduct."