Polls code violations: 'Executive magistrates' activities not visible'

Election Commissioner Mahbub Talukdar today alleged that activities of executive magistrates deployed to monitor the violation of election code of conduct in Dhaka city polls were not visible.

He also reiterated his call to the commission to issue a specific circular stating that lawmakers and ministers will not be able to take part in any election-related activities during the upcoming Dhaka city corporations’ polls.

“The lack of faith in the commission cannot be addressed if it does not take immediate measures against violations of the electoral code of conduct,” Talukdar said in an unofficial note to the Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioner yesterday.

He also said Dhaka North City Corporation's advertisement on its success to control mosquitoes published in media is nothing but election campaign for DNCC's Awami League mayoral candidate Atiqul Islam.

Atiq is the immediate past mayor who joined the election race by resigning form the position just ahead of collecting nomination forms.

“Necessary action can be taken against the officials who have taken part in such electioneering,” Talukdar added.

In an unofficial note on January 13, Talukdar has urged the commission to issue a specific circular stating that MPs and ministers will not be able to take part in any election-related activities.

The comments come in the wake of growing tensions between the ruling party and Election Commission, over MPs participation in the campaigns of Dhaka city polls slated for January 30.

Mahbub Talukdar in yesterday’s letter said a lawmaker is still engaged in campaign activities, according to a newspaper report.

Another lawmaker has already announced intention to address a function in Dhaka, to be held marking the birth centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, he added.

“In this circumstance, I think it is necessary to publish a circular with specific guidelines,” he said in the letter.