Following a week of political uncertainty, Principal Dr. Iqbal Hossain Bhuiyan, the Jamaat-e-Islami nominated candidate for the Narayanganj-3 (Sonargaon) constituency, will remain in the electoral race. His attempt to withdraw his nomination failed after he was reportedly blocked by supporters, causing him to miss the official deadline.
The situation arose from shifting political calculations within the 10-party alliance. While rumors initially suggested the seat might be conceded to other alliance partners like Khelafat Majlis or Khelafat Andolan, Jamaat sought to maintain its stronghold in the area.
Sources indicate that Dr. Iqbal was directed by party leadership to withdraw his candidacy in favor of alliance agreements. However, as he attempted to reach the District Administration office to submit his withdrawal papers, local activists and supporters allegedly blocked his path. Reports suggest he was further delayed when the office of his legal counsel was locked, preventing him from finalizing the paperwork before the 5:00 PM cutoff.
Dr. Iqbal eventually reached the Returning Officer’s office during Maghrib prayers, but his application was rejected.
Returning Officer’s Statement District Magistrate and Returning Officer Raihan Kabori confirmed the development. "Dr. Iqbal Hossain Bhuiyan did not submit his withdrawal application by the 5:00 PM deadline. As the stipulated time had passed, we were unable to legally accept the request," she stated.
Local Sentiment The failed withdrawal has been met with enthusiasm by local supporters. "We have been preparing for this election for a long time," said one local resident. "Dr. Iqbal has worked closely with the people of Sonargaon. We want a representative who understands our needs, and we are prepared to cast our votes for him."
With the withdrawal period now closed, Dr. Iqbal Hossain Bhuiyan remains an official candidate for the Narayanganj-3 seat.
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