The New Nation - Internet Edition

Staff Reporter

The Election Commission (EC) has warned BNP over violations of the election code of conduct.

A letter has been sent to the BNP Secretary General yesterday warning the party over the violations.

"We sent warning letter to the concerned person of the party today (Sunday) warning over the violations," said Mihir Sarwar Morshed, Deputy Secretary of the commission.

In the letter the EC said the leaders and activists of BNP have violated the code of conduct by carrying out election publicity at the party's rally in Chittagong on Friday.

BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia addressed crowds of party leaders and supporters carrying banners and festoons, welcoming the party chairperson with the party's election symbol "sheaf of paddy" and pasting posters of potential candidates.

The EC deputy secretary said the code of conduct barred parties and individuals from election campaigning more than three weeks ahead of the election.

"The EC has requested the BNP to refrain from such activities for the sake of creating congenial atmosphere for elections," Morshed added.

Awami league was similarly warned after party chief Sheikh Hasina was welcomed by similar rallies of supporters on her return to Bangladesh on Nov 6.