HC dismisses writ, BNP’s Munshi barred from contesting polls

The High Court on Wednesday dismissed a writ petition filed by BNP candidate Manjurul Ahsan Munshi, clearing the way for the cancellation of his candidacy in Cumilla-4 constituency ahead of February 12 general elections.

A bench comprising Justice Razik Al Jalil and Justice Md Anowarul Islam rejected the petition, upholding the Election Commission’s decision to disqualify Munshi on the grounds that he is a loan defaulter.

With the ruling, Munshi is no longer in the race, effectively removing the strongest potential challenger to Hasnat Abdullah, the candidate of Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) and Jamaat-led 10-party alliance in Cumilla-4 constituency.

Munshi had filed the writ challenging the Election Commission’s decision that declared him ineligible due to defaulted loans. 

Although the returning officer initially accepted his nomination papers, Hasnat Abdullah later filed an appeal with the Election Commission, alleging that Munshi was a loan defaulter.

Following an appeal hearing on January 17, the Election Commission cancelled Munshi’s nomination papers, a decision that has now been upheld by the High Court.

SH