Shammi, Sadiq Abdullah fail to contest election

Awami League aspirant in Barishal-4 constituency Shammi Ahmed and independent candidate Serniabat Sadiq Abdullah of the Barisal-5 constituency failed to contest in the coming national election, according to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court’s decision on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the decision on Awami League candidate for Faridpur-3 constituency Shamim Haque over his dual citizenship will be taken after one week.

A six-member Appellate Division bench led by Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan today dismissed Shammi and Sadiq Abdullah’s petitions and gave time to Shamim Haque following a time plea.

Earlier, the Returning Officer cancelled Shammi’s nomination paper on ground of having dual citizenship.

The EC on December 15 turned down two petitions lodged by Shammi following hearings.

Shammi, AL international affairs secretary, submitted the two petitions challenging the decisions of Returning Officer – one is against the cancellation of her nomination paper and another is acceptance of Pankaj Debnath’s nomination paper.

In her petition, Shammi Ahmed alleged that Pankaj Debnath concealed information in the affidavits submitted with his nomination paper.

Earlier, Col Jahid Farruq submitted an application seeking the cancellation of the candidacy of  Sadiq Abdullah bringing an allegation of his dual citizenship.

On December 15, the Election Commission (EC) cancelled the candidature of Sadiq Abdullah, former mayor of Barishal City Corporation.

Later, Sadiq Abdullah filed a writ petition with the High Court challenging the HC order.

On December 18, the High Court stayed the Election Commission’s order. Next day, Jahid Farruq filed a petition with the chamber court of the Appellate Division seeking a stay on the High Court order.

Later, the Appellate Division has stayed the High Court order.