Jhalokathi, Jan 10 (V7N) — The Election Inquiry Committee has served show-cause notices to two candidates of Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolon Bangladesh contesting the Jhalokathi-2 (Sadar and Nalchity) constituency over alleged violations of the election code of conduct.

The notices were issued separately on Thursday evening, January 8, by the constituency’s Election Inquiry Officer and Civil Judge Md Arif Hossain. The candidates are Jamaat-e-Islami nominee SM Neyamul Karim and Islami Andolon Bangladesh candidate Mohammad Sirajul Islam, also known as Siraji.

According to the notice, following the announcement of the election schedule for the 13th National Parliamentary Election 2026, all candidates were instructed to remove posters, banners, festoons, wall writings, pandals, and arches at their own expense within 48 hours. However, even after the stipulated deadline, posters and banners bearing the names and party symbols of the two candidates were reportedly found displayed at various locations across Jhalokathi Sadar and Nalchity upazilas.

The committee stated that the act constitutes a violation of Rule 7, sub-rule (a), of the Political Parties and Candidates Code of Conduct for Parliamentary Elections 2025.

The candidates have been asked to appear in person and submit written explanations as to why a report should not be sent to the Election Commission or why judicial proceedings should not be initiated against them. They have been directed to appear at 11:30 am on January 11 at the Rajapur Civil Judge Court, located on the third floor of the District Judge Court building.

Responding to the notice, Islami Andolon Bangladesh candidate Mohammad Sirajul Islam said his party workers are removing posters and banners from different locations. He added that a few materials might have remained unintentionally or out of sight. He stated that he respects the law and will submit his response within the stipulated time.

Attempts were made several times to contact Jamaat-e-Islami candidate SM Neyamul Karim over the phone, but he did not respond, and his statement could not be obtained.

The matter is now under review as authorities continue to enforce compliance with election regulations ahead of the polls.

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