Islami Andolan Bangladesh candidate Ziaul Haque of Cox’s Bazar-2 (Maheshkhali-Kutubdia) faces allegations of violating election conduct rules after accepting a luxury car as a gift for campaign purposes.
The candidate reportedly received a 2004 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado from a well-wisher. The vehicle’s current market value exceeds TK40 lakh.
Following the gift, Ziaul Haque posted on his personal Facebook account: “I am deeply grateful to a respected guardian of my madrasa who has provided this car for campaigning in Cox’s Bazar-2 (Maheshkhali-Kutubdia).”
He described the gift as ‘selfless support’.
However, under the Election Commission’s Code of Conduct, accepting valuable gifts during the campaign from government or private sources is considered an attempt to exert undue influence. Such actions are a direct violation of election rules.
Clause 9(a) of the 2025 Election Code prohibits any registered political party, nominated candidate, or individual acting on their behalf from using mechanical vehicles—including buses, trucks, boats, or motorcycles—for rallies, public meetings, or showdowns during the election period.
A senior member of the Cox’s Bazar District Bar Association said that since Ziaul Haque publicly announced plans to use the car in campaigning, doing so would clearly breach the law.
Lawyer Abdur Rahim added: “No candidate can exchange or use gifts during the election. His public declaration that he will use the car in a campaign rally makes the act unlawful.”
Contacted on Sunday night, Ziaul Haque confirmed to reporters: “I have taken the car solely for campaign purposes. It is for temporary use until the election.”
When asked if using a gift car violates the Code of Conduct, he responded, “Why? Is using a car prohibited? Can’t we go anywhere in it?” He then ended the call, citing a prior engagement.
Meanwhile, during a discussion organised by the Cox’s Bazar District Law and Order Cell on Sunday evening, Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retired) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah told journalists: “No candidate may act outside the Code of Conduct during elections. Returning Officers have been instructed to enforce strict monitoring.”
Cox’s Bazar District Returning Officer and Deputy Commissioner Abdul Mannan said: “If any candidate violates the election conduct rules, necessary action will be taken according to regulations.”
