Dhaka: BNP has sought clarification from the Election Commission (EC) regarding the provision that mandates candidates in the upcoming 13th Jatiya Sangsad election to provide information on their children’s income tax in their nomination papers. A three-member delegation from the BNP, led by Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan, approached the Chief Election Commissioner at Nirbachan Bhaban to address this issue.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the delegation included BNP Chairperson’s Advisory Council member Ismail Jabiullah and former acting secretary of the Election Commission Dr. Mohammad Zakaria. After their meeting with the EC, Nazrul Islam Khan briefed journalists, highlighting the confusion surrounding the requirement. He stated that the BNP had sent a letter and discussed the matter directly with the EC to seek clarity.
Nazrul Islam Khan emphasized the urgency of resolving the issue, stating, “If this matter is not clarified very quickly, and remains in the nomination form, problems will certainly arise.” The EC acknowledged the concern and clarified that the provision applies only to ‘dependent children.’
The Chief Election Commissioner assured the BNP delegation that a clear directive on this matter would be issued soon. Furthermore, the BNP urged the EC to take measures to prevent the misuse of technology during election campaigns, emphasizing the need for a strict stance against the use of AI-generated content on social media for propaganda or defamation.
Nazrul Islam Khan conveyed that the EC is actively monitoring fake content through its own system to ensure appropriate action is taken.