Mahmudur Rahman Manna's Nomination Cancelled in Bogra, Preparation for Appeal
The nomination paper of Mahmudur Rahman Manna, President of Nagorik Oikya, from Bogra-2 (Shibganj) constituency in the upcoming national parliamentary election has been declared cancelled. The Returning Officer made this announcement after scrutiny at the Bogra Deputy Commissioner's office on Friday (January 02) morning. It is learned that his nomination paper was declared illegal on charges of loan default. However, Manna's lawyers claimed it was a conspiratorial decision.
Reason for Cancellation
The Returning Officer said that according to the CIB report of Bangladesh Bank, there is a defaulted loan in a bank in the name of Mahmudur Rahman Manna. According to the election law, no loan defaulter can be a candidate in the election. However, Manna told the journalists present, "I settled the loan issue before the deadline. CIB was not updated due to the negligence of the bank authorities. This is a tactic to keep me away from the election."
Declaration of Legal Battle
Immediately after the cancellation of the nomination paper, Mahmudur Rahman Manna announced that he would appeal to the Election Commission (EC) against this decision. He said, "I am optimistic about getting justice. I have all the documents of loan repayment. I will get back my candidacy by appealing to the EC, InshaAllah." His lawyers are already preparing the necessary papers for filing the appeal.
Protest by Supporters
Manna's supporters staged a protest procession in Shibganj upon hearing the news of the cancellation of their beloved leader's nomination. They demanded immediate withdrawal of this decision. Supporters claimed that his candidacy was cancelled at the behest of the ruling party out of fear of Manna. However, the police said no chaos would be tolerated. Additional police have been deployed in the area.
View of Analysts
Bogra-2 constituency is politically very important. Mahmudur Rahman Manna is a heavyweight candidate for this seat. His disqualification could bring a major change in the election equation. Political analysts believe that if his candidacy is restored on appeal, there will be a tough fight here. And if he is dropped, it will be a big blow to the opposition alliance.
