EC warns two Awami League MPs for breach of polls code

The Election Commission has warned two of over two dozen MPs who have been shortlisted from media reports on breach of municipal polls code of conduct in past one month.

The EC sent the letters warning Habiganj-3 MP Md Abu Zahir and Sirajganj-6 MP Hashibur Rahman Swapon, both leaders of the ruling Awami League, on Thursday.
 
The warning comes five days before the elections to 233 municipalities amidst allegations that the EC is being soft on ministers and MPs.

Before sending the instruction to warn the MPs, Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Rakibuddin Ahmad told reporters that the EC was "sending out a message that it is neutral".

"We've issued instructions to take immediate action in cases of breach of electoral code of conduct. We will be stern in every way," he said.

Habiganj-3 MP Md Abu Zahir and Sirajganj-6 MP Hashibur Rahman Swapon

The letters reminded the two MPs of their activities in breach of the electoral code of conduct.

"The Election Commissioner has warned you for such activities," it said.

"Stop doing so and follow the code of conduct for the sake of free, fair and peaceful elections," it said.

"Otherwise," the letter added, "the EC will take legal actions against you..."

Zahir and Swapon solicited vote for Awami League mayoral candidates in Nabiganj and Shahjadpur municipalities respectively on Dec 5.