Show-cause notice over Bogura-1 Jamaat candidate’s claim of ‘Freedom Fighter’ status

The Election Commission’s inquiry and judicial committee has issued a show‑cause notice to Jamaat candidate Principal Shahabuddin of Bogura‑1 for allegedly using the title “freedom fighter” before his name in campaign materials despite not being a freedom fighter.

The notice was issued on Monday, 2 February, against the Bangladesh Jamaat‑e‑Islami candidate for the Bogura‑1 constituency of Sariakandi and Sonatola.

The committee said it conducted an on‑site inquiry based on a written complaint submitted by Kazi Erfanur Rahman, the chief agent of the sheaf of paddy symbol.

The inquiry found that for the upcoming 13th national parliament election, Principal Shahabuddin has been campaigning using the word “freedom fighter” before his name even though he is not a freedom fighter.

The notice said this type of campaign violates Rule 16 of Clause 13 of the Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates in Parliamentary Elections, 2026.

He has been asked to submit a written explanation as to why legal action should not be taken against him. The notice also said that if he fails to submit a written statement by the specified date at the office of the Election Inquiry and Judicial Committee located at the Bogura District and Sessions Judge Court, action will be taken according to law.