Panchagarh, Jan 24 (V7N) — The Election Commission (EC) has issued separate show cause notices to two candidates from the Panchagarh-1 constituency for violating the electoral code of conduct ahead of the February 12 national elections.

Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Kazi Md. Sayemuzzaman confirmed the matter to the media on Saturday afternoon.

The notices were issued to:

  • Sarjis Alam, chief organizer of the northern region of the National Citizens Party (NCP) and candidate of the 10-party alliance.

  • Barrister Nowshad Zamir, BNP candidate for the paddy sheaf symbol and international affairs secretary of the party’s executive committee.

According to the notice, Sarjis Alam welcomed his alliance chief at an election rally on January 23 and used billboards, banners, and a toran featuring the photo of an alliance chief not from his own party, which violates Rule 7(f) of the Election Code of Conduct 2025. The rule stipulates that a candidate may only use the photo and campaign materials of their own party chief.

Meanwhile, Nowshad Zamir faced multiple allegations, including:

  • Disobeying instructions from the Returning Officer.

  • Campaigning without submitting his official Facebook ID.

  • Obstructing the removal of festoons installed in violation of the rules.

  • Using festoons larger than permitted size (6 ft × 3 ft instead of 18 in × 24 in).

  • Illegal gatherings near the district administrator’s office late at night.

  • Verbal altercations with the magistrate in charge and threats against government referendum banners.

The returning officer warned that if a satisfactory response is not submitted within the stipulated time, further action will be taken as per the law.

END/SMA/AJ