A writ petition has been filed with the High Court challenging the validity of the candidacy of BNP-nominated candidate Dr. M A Quayum for the Dhaka-11 constituency. The petition cites allegations of dual citizenship and the concealment of information in his nomination papers.
The writ was moved on Monday (February 2) by Nahid Islam, the Convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and a candidate representing the 11-party alliance for the same constituency.
Seeking Stay on Candidacy
In the petition, Nahid Islam has sought a stay order on the candidacy of the BNP nominee. The legal team representing the NCP leader—comprising Advocate Zohirul Islam Musa and Advocate Ali Azgor Shorifi—argued that Dr. M A Quayum’s alleged dual citizenship legally disqualifies him from contesting the parliamentary elections under existing Bangladeshi law.
“We have filed the writ today on the grounds of dual citizenship and non-disclosure of vital information. We expect a hearing on this matter in the High Court within this week,” said Advocate Zohirul Islam Musa.
Election Commission’s Earlier Clearance
The legal challenge comes after the Election Commission had previously declared the nomination papers of both Nahid Islam and Dr. M A Quayum valid for the Dhaka-11 seat.
Dr. M A Quayum, who serves as the Micro-credit Affairs Secretary of the BNP, is a key figure in the party’s Dhaka Metropolitan North unit. The Dhaka-11 constituency, covering Badda, Rampura, and Vatara, is expected to see a intense contest, and the High Court’s upcoming ruling could potentially reshape the race.
