EC cancels Monira Sharmin nomination for reserved seat

The Election Commission (EC) has cancelled the nomination of National Citizens Party (NCP) joint convener Monira Sharmin for a reserved women’s seat in the 13th National Parliament.

Returning Officer and EC Joint Secretary Moin Uddin Khan announced the decision at the Election Building in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Thursday (April 23) after 12 noon.

He said the nomination was cancelled as she did not complete the required three years after leaving government service.

Assistant Returning Officer and EC Deputy Secretary Monir Hossain said the decision can be challenged through an appeal. He added that the seat will be open to all parties or alliances if it becomes vacant.

Earlier on Wednesday (April 22), the Returning Officer found valid the nomination papers of 12 out of 13 candidates from the Jamaat-e-Azam alliance.

On that day, Monira Sharmin was asked to submit full details of her service by Thursday noon, while scrutiny of her nomination remained pending.

According to records, Monira Sharmin became joint convener of the NCP in March 2025. She joined Bangladesh Krishi Bank as an officer in November 2023 and later left the job in December.

Under Section 12 (1)(ch) of the Representation of the People Order, a person is not eligible to be a Member of Parliament if less than three years have passed since resignation or retirement from government or statutory service.

As per the election schedule, nomination scrutiny took place on Wednesday and Thursday. The last date for withdrawal of candidacy is April 29 after appeal disposal. Voting is scheduled for May 12.