Nomination papers of all entrants by 5:00pm will be accepted: Dhaka Divisional Commissioner

Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer for the 13th National Parliamentary Election Sharf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury has said nomination papers of all candidates who enter the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner’s Office premises by 5:00pm on Monday will be accepted. Monday is the last day for submitting nomination papers.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Dhaka Divisional Commissioner and Returning Officer’s Office in Shegunbagicha around 1:30pm on Monday (December 29).

The commissioner said candidates had been submitting nomination papers in an orderly manner since morning and the process would continue until 5:00pm. He added that necessary instructions had been given to candidates to avoid any untoward incidents during submission.

Regarding the number of nominations submitted, Sharf Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury said the final count would be available after 5:00pm, assuring that all candidates who enter the office compound within the stipulated time would have their nomination papers received.

Describing the atmosphere as cordial, he said in many cases two or three candidates were entering the office together, reflecting mutual respect and cooperation between senior and junior contenders, which he said was encouraging for a peaceful election.

On security, the commissioner said there was no major threat from the Election Commission’s perspective at this stage. Candidates have been instructed to strictly follow the electoral code of conduct, and further directives will be issued if necessary.

He also said that poster removal and cleaning drives in Dhaka have been ongoing since the election schedule was announced, with both city corporations taking action promptly whenever irregularities are reported.

Praising the role of the media, the commissioner said the strong presence of journalists reflects active scrutiny of the election process and would help deter any wrongdoing.