The High Court today directed the Election Commission to allocate BNP’s election symbol “Sheaf of Paddy” to its four candidates in place of other four rival contenders who were earlier allocated the same symbol.
Kamrun Nahar Shirin will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of Monjurul Islam Bimal for Natore-1, Abdul Hamid Dabliu will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of SA Kabir Jinnah for Manikganj-1, Mostafizur Rahman will get “Sheaf of Paddy” instead of Khalek Chowdhury for Naogaon-1 and Masuda Momin will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of Abdul Muhith Talukder, Deputy Attorney General Motaher Hossain Sazu told The Daily Star.
He said Monjurul, Jinnah, Khalek and Muhith cannot contest the December 30 election following the HC orders, he said, adding that they can, however, move appeals before the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court against the HC orders.
The HC stayed for three months the EC’s decisions to allocate “Sheaf of Paddy” to Monjurul, Jinnah, Khalek and Muhith and issued separate rules asking the EC and government to explain in four weeks why the EC’s decisions should not be declared illegal.
The bench of Justice JBM Hassan and Justice Md Khairul Alam came up with the orders and rules following separate writ petitions filed by Kamrun Nahar, Abdul Hamid, Mostafizur and Masuda challenging the EC’s decisions.
The writ petitioners said in their petitions that BNP nominated them first for contesting the December 30 general election.
But the EC allocated “Sheaf of Paddy” to their rival candidates in violation of the Representation of People’s Order (RPO), they said in the petitions.
The High Court today directed the Election Commission to allocate BNP’s election symbol “Sheaf of Paddy” to its four candidates in place of other four rival contenders who were earlier allocated the same symbol.
Kamrun Nahar Shirin will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of Monjurul Islam Bimal for Natore-1, Abdul Hamid Dabliu will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of SA Kabir Jinnah for Manikganj-1, Mostafizur Rahman will get “Sheaf of Paddy” instead of Khalek Chowdhury for Naogaon-1 and Masuda Momin will get “Sheaf of Paddy” in place of Abdul Muhith Talukder, Deputy Attorney General Motaher Hossain Sazu told The Daily Star.
He said Monjurul, Jinnah, Khalek and Muhith cannot contest the December 30 election following the HC orders, he said, adding that they can, however, move appeals before the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court against the HC orders.
The HC stayed for three months the EC’s decisions to allocate “Sheaf of Paddy” to Monjurul, Jinnah, Khalek and Muhith and issued separate rules asking the EC and government to explain in four weeks why the EC’s decisions should not be declared illegal.
The bench of Justice JBM Hassan and Justice Md Khairul Alam came up with the orders and rules following separate writ petitions filed by Kamrun Nahar, Abdul Hamid, Mostafizur and Masuda challenging the EC’s decisions.
The writ petitioners said in their petitions that BNP nominated them first for contesting the December 30 general election.
But the EC allocated “Sheaf of Paddy” to their rival candidates in violation of the Representation of People’s Order (RPO), they said in the petitions.
Related News
Body:
As the country gears up for the 12th parliamentary election, it is disheartening to see the landscape marred by laminated and polythene-coated posters, despite a ban on their use by the Election Commission. The problem has been especially prevalent in Dhaka which has been plastered with such posters mostly by ruling party candidates, and to a lesser degree by independents and candidates from smaller parties. The plastic coating is apparently used to protect posters from being ruined by fog. But that doesn't justify breaching a ban meant to reduce the environmental cost of election campaigning.
The proliferation of such posters, however, is but part of a wider concern about environmental degradation in conventional campaigns. Besides plastic pollution, candidates have also been seen using high-volume microphones and loud music across the city, causing discomfort to the public, especially vulnerable groups like the sick, children, and the elderly. The wide distribution of promotional materials like caps and leaflets, which are invariably thrown away, or irresponsible use of disposable items like cups and plates by supporters is also posing a threat to the health of the city.
This is totally unacceptable. Candidates, many among them future lawmakers, are expected to lead by example, not encourage or be themselves engaged in breaching environmental regulations. Unfortunately, despite having the scope for alternative, modern campaigning practices using digital platforms, our politicians still seem to prefer conventional methods of public engagement. According to a study by the Environment and Social Development Organization (ESDO), the 2020 mayoral election in Dhaka saw the use of a staggering 340 million plastic-coated posters. The number could double this time, the ESDO warns. During a visit to a number of constituencies in Dhaka, our reporter saw plastic-coated posters being used indiscriminately.
Who will take responsibility for the environmental repercussions of such actions? Why is the Election Commission failing to prevent them, or punish non-compliant candidates and parties? Experts talked about the importance of including the ban on plastic use in campaigns, imposed on December 25, in the electoral code of conduct. While this may be the appropriate thing to do, the fact is, without proper enforcement, no amount of lawmaking is good enough. While we expect the EC, particularly returning officers, to play an effective role in ensuring compliance of electoral rules, it is the candidates who must recognise their responsibility in this regard and ensure environmentally friendly campaigning practices.
Body:
Political parties have stressed their commitment to ensuring press freedom, recognising it as essential for democracy and good governance, and warning that its absence leads to fascism.
They also emphasised the need for upholding the values of ethical journalism and said the media should not be used for corporate or other vested interests.
The remarks were made at a discussion organised by the Editors' Council to mark the World Press Freedom Day at the Jatiya Press Club yesterday.
In his speech, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, "We can assure you that we [the BNP] have always been, and will continue to be, in favour of press freedom -- whether we are in government or not."
He highlighted his party's history of standing against the oppression faced by the media, as well as the "clearly fascist" laws imposed on the media under the previous regime.
"We have fought before, we are still fighting, and we will continue this fight. We will never support unjust imposition of one's views on others. We will, of course, firmly uphold the right to freedom of opinion.
"If we ever get the chance to govern, we will institutionalise press freedom. If we remain in opposition, we will continue our fight to ensure it."
Fakhrul also pointed out that it was the BNP that first paved the way for press freedom in 1975, when all but four newspapers were shut down under the one-party rule of BAKSAL.
"We have fought before, we are still fighting, and we will continue the fight. We will never support unjust imposition of one's views on others. We will, of course, firmly uphold the right to freedom of opinion."
— BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir
He acknowledged his party's shortcomings but emphasised its contributions to press freedom, noting that numerous media outlets were established during its tenure and that journalists faced considerably less oppression compared to the previous government.
However, Fakhrul expressed concern about how his words might be interpreted by specific outlets, how they would be published, or how social media would portray them. "For those of us in politics, this is a matter of concern, especially with the rising trend of character assassination on social media; it's difficult not to be worried."
Regarding this trend and mob attacks, he noted, "If I assume that only my views are correct, then we will never succeed in democratic practices."
He added that, likewise, if one believes that it is only acceptable when a media outlet says positive things about them and unacceptable when it does not, such mindsets will also hinder democracy.
Refuting the narrative that the BNP rejects reforms and only demands elections, he stated, "The truth is, reforms began with us. We were the ones who transitioned from a one-party system to a multi-party system. We enabled the shift from a presidential to a parliamentary democracy. Despite opposition, we introduced the caretaker government provision in the constitution."
Fakhrul emphasised that the 1971 Liberation War remains central to the BNP's ideology and that the party will never compromise on this issue.
"Through the uprising against 15 years of authoritarian rule, there is now an opportunity to begin a democratic system, but democracy needs to be practised, just like a tree needs regular care to grow," he added.
Nagorik Oikya Chairman Mahmudur Rahman Manna called the interim government "the most media-friendly government" since Bangladesh's independence, but questioned why it had not withdrawn cases against journalists filed by the previous government under the Digital Security Act.
Convener of the National Citizen Party Nahid Islam, in his speech, said Bangladesh had improved its global ranking on press freedom this year, but it still remains in the lower tiers.
He pointed out that during the last 16 years under the Hasina regime, there had been legal and cultural interventions by the media. "We need to move away from a media environment where the Awami League's ideological influence and authoritarian control have taken hold … Media institutions themselves should propose and uphold principles of good governance."
Nahid also called for transparency in media ownership and investments, as the media itself has demanded clarity on the income sources of political activists.
He added that his party believes in free press, as the July movement grew from restrictions on freedom of speech.
Nahid said that during his tenure as information adviser there was no government pressure on the media. "There were some social pressures on certain media outlets, but we always supported the media houses. Sometimes we criticised their roles in the previous regime … but nothing was done to shut down any media houses."
Chief Coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon Zonayed Saki said a free press is the most basic requirement for a democratic state.
"We need to create a situation where people trust the media more than the courts, even when justice is denied," he said, adding that his party is committed to building a society free from fear.
Saki further stated that a democratic system cannot function without media freedom.
"The laws that silence the media must be revoked," he said, while also calling for media accountability to prevent arbitrary practices.
"Some business groups have created media organisations to serve their own or their business interests. Media owners must also be held accountable," he said, suggesting that there should be a clear policy on ownership.
He also highlighted mob attacks as a new phenomenon, where certain individuals achieve their goals by issuing threats. "If these are not stopped, the existence of the state will be under threat."
Mahfuz Anam, editor and publisher of The Daily Star and president of the Editors' Council, said it was a matter of disgrace that 266 journalists have been charged in cases related to alleged murder or violence.
Despite Bangladesh rising 16 places to rank 149th out of 180 countries in the latest World Press Freedom Index, such mass cases against journalists remain a serious concern and contradict the principles of media freedom, he opined.
"This does not mean that no one has committed any wrongdoing. If someone has done wrong, they should be properly charged and punished, and we [the Editors' Council] will not stand by them…. But it's been over seven months since some journalists have been caught up in these cases, yet there has been no progress in the investigations. As a result, the accused face reputational harm and live in fear of mob attacks," he added.
"At this moment, 13 journalists are in jail, not getting bail, and no legal process is ongoing. People do have the right to file cases, but the question is whether the government will act when the law is abused by some quarters.
"People hope the current government will reform and strengthen democracy, and reinforce freedom of speech. However, harassing journalists is not only disheartening but also tarnishes Bangladesh's image globally," he said, urging the government to review the cases against journalists.
Manabzamin Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury noted how World Press Freedom Day was being celebrated while journalists in Bangladesh are losing their jobs for asking questions.
"The situation, however, has improved compared to last year."
He also highlighted divisions within the media, which are causing significant damage to the industry. "Such divisions must end."
New Age Editor Nurul Kabir stated that a free press does not depend on journalists alone, but largely on lawmakers, politicians, and the state of democracy. "Bangladesh is still in the lowest global position for press freedom, which is shameful for journalists, harmful for the people, and dishonourable for the politicians … They [politicians] are responsible for the laws that prevent the press from doing its job properly."
Kabir acknowledged the interim government's move to carry out reforms in various sectors, including the media, but said it was unnecessary to wait for the commission's report to eliminate some controversial laws. "I am glad that the government initiated a declaration based on national consensus, but it seems deceptive when it speaks of minimum consensus among political parties.
"It seems the government has no philosophical stance … There are different political parties with different views."
He added that some parties don't even recognise December 16 as Bangladesh's Victory Day.
Kabir concluded that the consensus should be based on the core values of the proclamation of independence: equality, democracy, and the protection of the rights of all citizens.
Jatiya Press Club President Hasan Hafiz also spoke at the event, which was moderated by Dewan Hanif Mahmud, editor of Bonik Barta and general secretary of the Editors' Council.
Photo: Star
Body:
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has opposed the proposal to change the name of the state, as discussed in the National Consensus Commission's proposal, standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed said today.
"There has been a proposal to completely rewrite the preamble of the Constitution. We do not agree with this," he said after submitting BNP's proposals to the Consensus Commission at the National Parliament building this afternoon.
Salahuddin asserted that the party opposes any alterations to the preamble of the Constitution, particularly the inclusion of the 2024 mass uprising alongside the Liberation War of 1971.
"The preamble places the 2024 mass uprising on the same footing as the 1971 Liberation War. This is inappropriate. The previous preamble should remain unchanged," the party said.
BNP suggested that if the 2024 mass uprising is to be recognised, it could be included elsewhere in the Constitution, such as in the schedules, through further discussion.
Salahuddin also raised concerns over the proposal to place the Election Commission (EC) under a parliamentary committee, warning that such a move would create unnecessary complications, particularly regarding the National Identity Database (NID).
"If the NID is handed over to a separate independent institution, the Election Commission will have to repeatedly rely on that institution for all NID-related assistance. We believe this should remain under the jurisdiction of the Election Commission," he said.
Salahuddin further said that national parliamentary elections should take precedence over a referendum.
"We believe that the national parliamentary elections should be held first, not a referendum. Once a democratically elected political government is established through parliamentary elections, all discussions and decisions can take place," he said.
He also pointed out that under the Awami League government, NID operations were placed under the Ministry of Home Affairs, and the law facilitating this transfer has yet to be repealed. He called for the law's repeal to restore the Election Commission's control over the NID.
Body:
Today’s episode of ‘The Election Talks 2018’ brings former student politician and journalist Subhash Singha Roy, and political analyst Dr Sakhawat Hossain.
Subhash, a former leader of Bangladesh Chhatra League and a journalist, spoke about the fairness of the election and expressed his views over the allegations against ruling party.
Dr Sakhawat, on the other hand, spoke about the harassment, arrests and cases against opposition political activists to reflect on the situation on the field now.
Watch the video to know more…
Body:
The BNP will hold talks with like-minded political parties to come up with a comprehensive action plan to drum up support for election by December.
The decision came at the party's standing committee meeting last night, a day after a disappointing meeting with Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus.
Party leaders believe the government might be holding something back and that is why it's not coming up with a specific timeline for the election.
However, the party will not take a hard line right now. Instead, it wants to hold nationwide soft programmes, like rallies and processions on various issues, focusing on the election, to maintain momentum.
The programmes will be finalised after consultations with all like-minded political parties, sources in the standing committee said.
Party insiders said a tentative three-month action plan is ready, and its implementation would be discussed with the allies.
BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman presided over the standing committee meeting held at the chairperson's Gulshan office.
Before the meeting, BNP Standing Committee Member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said, "The election atmosphere is already taking shape across the country. We have to be prepared; we are heading into the pre-election phase. It's only natural that we announce pre-election programmes. Such announcements are expected."
Party leaders at last night's meeting stressed that they want to send a strong message that people across the country are eager for elections.
Earlier yesterday, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed reaffirmed the party's commitment to state reforms and said that it is seriously engaging with the National Consensus Commission (NCC) to reach a consensus.
"BNP is serious about reforms. That's why we're actively discussing with the commission, point by point," he told reporters after a meeting with the NCC at the LD Hall of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.
He criticised the spreadsheet circulated by the NCC, saying that it "misled" political parties and created "unnecessary confusion" regarding the state reform.
He added that many proposals were missing from the spreadsheet and did not reflect the commission's detailed proposals.
"We're reviewing the core proposals and aiming for reforms that truly serve the national interest," he said.
He also expressed concerns over judiciary-related reforms, claiming that the BNP had been misled by an earlier version of the proposals sent by the Judiciary Reform Commission.
"Our proposals on judicial appointments have been mischaracterised. We want reforms, but they must be done constitutionally," he said, reaffirming BNP's stance on judicial independence.
In his introductory remarks, another BNP Standing Committee member, Nazrul Islam Khan, said that BNP has always led the way in reform initiatives.
"Before others even spoke of reforms, Begum Khaleda Zia initiated Vision 2030. Shaheed president Ziaur Rahman had presented a 19-point programme about the state reform," he said.
Nazrul said that BNP already proposed a 31-point reform agenda and would welcome better recommendations from others.
"We're evaluating the reform commission's work from that perspective. Good proposals are coming in, and we'll adopt those that will serve public interest."
He emphasised that BNP's 31-point programme is not just a declaration but a firm commitment.
"Even if the commission does not produce a formal charter, the BNP already has one -- the Charter of Reform. So, we are clearly in favour of reforms," he said.
Nazrul expressed optimism about the commission's intentions. "We believe these proposals are being made in good faith. Reform is a continuous and inevitable process -- it must happen and will evolve."
He also mentioned that the BNP delegation asked the chief adviser during Wednesday's meeting whether any party has undertaken more reform initiatives than BNP.
"BNP has brought changes across the board -- both politically and democratically. We're engaging with the commission to make the most of the opportunities created by the recent mass uprising," he added.
Earlier, while opening the dialogue, Prof Ali Riaz, NCC vice-chairman, said the objective of the discussions is to formulate a national charter that will serve as a foundation for a sustainable democratic system in Bangladesh.
"Democracy has stumbled repeatedly in our country. These talks aim to institutionalise our long-standing democratic struggles and prevent future setbacks," he said.
Prof Riaz added that a consensus had already been built with the BNP on many issues and expressed hope that remaining differences could be resolved through dialogue.
The five-member BNP delegation also included Ismail Jabiullah, BNP chairperson's advisory council member, its leaders Abu Md Muniruzzaman Khan, former public administration secretary,and Ruhul Quddus Kajol, ex-Supreme Court Lawyers Association general secretary.
The NCC officially began its journey on February 15 through a meeting with political parties.
A "July Charter", which will outline a roadmap for the future of Bangladesh, is expected to be finalised based on a consensus around reform proposals ahead of the next national election.
Earlier, the commission sent a spreadsheet with 166 reform recommendations to 39 political parties, seeking their opinions.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. 
