Election Commission Not Responsible for Controversial Polls, Nurul Huda Tells Court

Dhaka, June 23, 2025: Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) K M Nurul Huda told a Dhaka court that the Election Commission cannot be held responsible for controversial elections. Huda, arrested in a case filed at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Police Station for allegedly conducting a farcical election through undue influence, was produced before the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court on Monday afternoon (June 23).

During the hearing, when asked by the judge if he had violated his oath while performing his duties, Huda responded with a firm “No.” He argued that elections are managed by a five-member commission with the support of 1.6 million officials, stating, “It’s not possible to monitor how elections are conducted across the country from Dhaka.” He further noted that post-election irregularities fall under the High Court’s jurisdiction, and the commission cannot halt an election once results are announced.

The case’s investigating officer, Sub-Inspector Shamsuzzoha Sarker from Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Police Station, sought a 10-day remand for Huda. Representing the state, the Public Prosecutor (PP) supported the remand, accusing Huda of depriving people of their voting rights during the 2018 election and ordering nighttime polling. The PP further alleged that money and biryani were distributed during the polls, calling Huda’s actions “shameless.”

Huda’s counsel, Advocate Tauhidul Islam Sajib, opposed the remand and sought bail, arguing that the charges were bailable and the remand request was legally inconsistent. Another defense lawyer highlighted Huda’s role as a sub-commander in the 1971 Liberation War, contributing to the liberation of Patuakhali district.

After a half-hour hearing, the court rejected the bail plea and granted a four-day remand for Huda.

The case was filed by BNP’s National Executive Committee member Md. Salahuddin Khan on Sunday (June 22), naming former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 24 others as accused. The complaint alleges that under Huda’s leadership, the Election Commission manipulated the 2018 and 2024 elections, stripping citizens of their voting rights and using law enforcement to stuff ballot boxes.

AI/MR