High Court Ruling Jeopardizes Manna’s Election Bid Amid Loan Default Dispute

In a major blow to his electoral aspirations, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna has been barred from contesting the upcoming 13th parliamentary elections following a High Court decision. The ruling coincided with an announcement from the BNP confirming their support for Manna in the Bogra-2 (Shibganj) constituency.

The Legal Conflict

On Wednesday, a High Court bench comprising Justice Md. Bazlur Rahman and Justice Md. Monjur Alam summarily rejected Manna’s writ petition. The politician had sought to have his name removed from the Credit Information Bureau (CIB) list of loan defaulters, a status that legally disqualifies individuals from running for office in Bangladesh.

Case Background

The dispute centers on Afaku Cold Storage Limited, where Manna holds a 50% stake. The company reportedly owes over 360 million BDT (36 crore) to the Bogra branch of Islami Bank.

• The Defense: Manna’s lawyers argued that he had already deposited over 12.6 million BDT (1.26 crore) after Bangladesh Bank directed the lender to reschedule the debt.

• The Goal: Despite the rescheduling, his name remained on the CIB list, prompting the legal challenge to restore his eligibility for the February 12 polls.

Political Implications

The timing of the court order is particularly significant. Earlier the same day, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced that the party would vacate the Bogra-2 seat for Manna as a key ally.

Manna, a former two-time VP of DUCSU and a veteran politician, has contested elections multiple times in the past but has yet to secure a seat in Parliament.

What Happens Next?

While the High Court's dismissal currently blocks his path, Manna’s legal team, led by Advocate Jyotirmoy Barua, has confirmed they will appeal the decision to the Appellate Division. The final verdict from the highest court will determine whether the Nagorik Oikya leader can proceed with his candidacy or if he will be sidelined from the February race.