Former MP openly gave money to workers in Faridpur to eat khichuri

Personal Correspondent::

A video clip of Jubo League presidium member former MP Mojibur Rahman Chowdhury Nixon, an independent candidate in Faridpur-4 constituency in the 12th National Assembly election, giving cash to his leaders-workers to eat khichuri after an election meeting has spread on social media.

The incident took place at Tempu Stand area near Bhanga police station on Thursday afternoon. At that time Nixon Chowdhury paid the money to the party leaders and workers after discussion with the workers.

In the video clip that has spread on social media, Nixon Chowdhury can be seen saying at the end of the speech, "You will have a big showdown at Bhangar Algi next Saturday." Our Aktar brothers and other leaders said. But we could not tell you anything about the election code of conduct.

"But I will arrange for you to eat khichuri. Thank you all, Jai Bangla, Jai Bangabandhu.”

At this time, the crowd clapped their hands saying 'thank you' and 'thank you'.

Then he said again, "And I made the arrangement that he would eat Khichuri." You see that (money) after I leave.”

After saying this, Nixon Chowdhury took out cash from his pocket and gave it to Akhter, son of Lutfar alias Bakkar Haji of Sonakhola village, who was standing on his left side. Nixon Chowdhury gave the money to Nazrul Shikiri when he (Akhter) indicated to give it to Nazrul Shikiri. At this time, Faridpur District Council Chairman Shahadat Hossain, Bhanga Upazila Chairman Md. Habibur Rahman Al Habib was present.

In this context Faridpur District Commissioner and Election Returning Officer. Kamrul Ahsan Talukder said, "I am not aware of the matter, but if anyone files a complaint with evidence, necessary action will be taken as per law."

It is to be noted that Article 1(3) of the Code of Conduct for the 12th National Election states, 'Payment of contributions, donations, etc. to any organization is prohibited. A candidate or any other person on his behalf shall not openly or secretly give or promise to give any kind of contribution or donation to any person, group living in the electoral area of the said candidate or to any institution located in that area or elsewhere.'

Besides, Section 18 (1) of the Code of Conduct states, 'Violation of the provisions of the Rules is a punishable offence.-(1) Any candidate or any other person on his behalf violates any provision of these Rules during the pre-election period, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or to a fine not exceeding fifty thousand taka. Or shall be punishable in both punishments.'