State Minister Aminul Haque Challenges Dhaka-16 Election Results in High Court

Despite the BNP’s overall landslide victory in the February 12 polls, Haque alleged "gross irregularities" and "administrative engineering" in his specific seat. He has formally requested the court to cancel the gazetted results and order a full recount of the votes.

The petition was placed before a single-judge High Court bench led by Justice Md. Zakir Hossain, which serves as an election tribunal. Haque, a former national football captain, claimed that the reported results did not reflect the actual mandate and accused certain local officials of favoring an opposing candidate. The court has already directed the relevant authorities to carefully preserve all ballot papers, documents, and election-related equipment for the Dhaka-16 seat until the legal proceedings are concluded.

This case is part of a growing wave of legal challenges following the recent general election. According to court sources, more than 15 candidates from various constituencies have filed similar petitions citing electoral discrepancies. Under the Representation of the People Order (RPO) of 1972, the High Court possesses the authority to act as an election tribunal to resolve such disputes. The upcoming hearing is expected to determine whether a recount will be granted, a decision that could set a significant precedent for other contested seats.