Nomination Cancelled: What's Next For Monira Sharmin?

Monira Sharmin, the Joint Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and a nominee from the Jamaat-led alliance, has announced her decision to appeal against the cancellation of her nomination for the reserved women's seats in Parliament.

"I will appeal against the Returning Officer's decision," she stated in her immediate reaction after Returning Officer Md. Moin Uddin Khan declared her nomination invalid at the Election Commission (EC) building in Agargaon on Thursday (April 23).

Her lawyer, Nazmus Sakib, added, "An appeal will be filed with the Election Commission next Sunday to regain her candidacy. We are hopeful that her candidacy will be reinstated through the appeal process."

Previously, on Wednesday, the Election Commission declared the nominations of 12 out of the 13 candidates nominated by the Jamaat-led alliance as valid. However, the final decision regarding Monira Sharmin’s nomination was put on hold.

During the hearing, it was revealed that Monira Sharmin was previously a government employee and drew a salary and allowances. She resigned from her post in December 2025. According to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) 1972, an individual is not eligible to contest elections until three years have passed since their retirement or resignation from government service.

Taking this provision into account, the Election Commission had given her until 12:00 PM on Thursday to submit necessary documents in her defense. Although she submitted the papers, the Returning Officer maintained the cancellation.

According to the schedule for the reserved women's seats, appeals will be received on April 26 and resolved between April 27 and 28. The election is scheduled to be held on May 12.