AL leaders break code in Gazipur, one says sorry

A ruling Awami League leader was caught violating electoral conduct in Gazipur ahead of the city corporation election there, for which he has apologised.

Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Noufel, organising secretary of Awami League for Dhaka division, was campaigning for his party’s candidate today during an existing ban on outsiders.

Election Commission on June 22 issued a circular asking outsiders to leave the Gazipur City Corporation from Saturday for holding the election in a free, fair and congenial atmosphere.

Awami League nominated mayoral aspirant Jahangir Alam was carrying out electioneering on June 24, 2018. Photo: Star

Also, Talukdar Abdul Khaleque, recently elected mayor of Khulna City Corporation, electioneered for Awami League at Gazipur Chowrasta intersection.

When a newsman projected a copy of the EC's ban, Noufel said, "I am sorry. I did not know the matter. I am leaving the place immediately. I was confused about the time. I am going away, otherwise violation of the electoral code of conduct will be committed."

He left Gazipur immediately after “coming to know” of the ban.

When asked about the view exchange meeting ignoring the ban, Awami League mayor runner Jahangir Alam said: "I was not aware of such ban as I was busy in carrying out my election campaign. The electoral code of conduct will be violated no more."