Staff Reporter :
A BNP-backed candidate in Chattogram was fined Tk50,000 on Saturday for violating the electoral code of conduct after entering his constituency with a large motorcade.
This marks the first enforcement measure in Chattogram since the national election schedule was announced on December 11.
The fine was imposed on Nazmul Mostafa Amin, BNP’s candidate for the Chattogram-15 (Satkania-Lohagara) seat, by Executive Magistrate Mong Achen, who has been tasked with monitoring compliance with election regulations in Lohagara upazila.
BNP named Nazmul Mostafa Amin as its candidate on December 4. He is contesting the election for the first time and began campaigning following the party’s announcement.
According to Lohagara Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Mong Achen, the candidate was intercepted at the Bot Tali Station area along the upazila boundary after entering Lohagara from Satkania.
“The candidate was standing inside a jeep while dozens of motorcycles, jeeps and private vehicles surrounded him from both the front and rear,” the magistrate said. “Organising or participating in such a motor procession after the election schedule has been declared is a direct violation of the code of conduct.”
He said Nazmul Mostafa Amin was fined under Section 27 of the Election Code of Conduct 2025 and was instructed to strictly adhere to the rules going forward.
“Following our intervention, the convoy was dispersed and the candidate did not continue further. He later went
on to attend a religious programme,” the official added.
In a video statement circulated on social media, Nazmul Mostafa Amin later acknowledged the violation, apologised for failing to comply with election regulations, and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public.
He maintained that the motorcade had not been planned. “I was travelling from the city to my constituency. Despite my repeated requests, party leaders, activists and local residents gathered to welcome me, which resulted in public inconvenience. I sincerely apologise to the people of my constituency,” he said.
He also stated that he respects the country’s laws and would promptly pay the fine imposed by the magistrate.
The Election Commission announced the schedule for the 13th parliamentary election on December 11, with voting slated for February 12.
