Mariam death case: TIB seeks clarity over MP status

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has questioned how Satkhira-4 lawmaker Gazi Nazrul Islam can retain his parliamentary seat amid allegations of “moral misconduct” and abuse of power and his recent arrest over the unnatural death of his second wife Mariam Khatun.

In a statement yesterday, the anti-graft watchdog also called for an impartial and independent investigation into Mariam’s death and the allegations of sextortion preceding it.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Urging the Speaker of the Parliament to determine what steps could be taken regarding the lawmaker’s continued membership, TIB said the allegations had raised serious questions about the dignity of parliament.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said no one could be considered guilty until an allegation was proven. However, he questioned whether an MP facing such grave allegations should remain in parliament without any ethical accountability mechanism.

He called on parliament and the Election Commission to clarify what steps were being taken regarding Gazi Nazrul’s parliamentary status.

Iftekharuzzaman noted that Article 66(2)(d) of the Constitution disqualifies a lawmaker if they are convicted of a criminal offence involving moral turpitude and sentenced to at least two years in prison.

Therefore, he said, allegations, arrest, remand or a party investigation do not by themselves create a constitutional disqualification for Gazi Nazrul.

However, parliament should not allow the legal threshold to become a shield for ethical misconduct, he added.

TIB called for clear provisions on serious ethical misconduct, conflicts of interest, abuse of power and actions that undermine the dignity of parliament, including circumstances under which parliamentary membership could be cancelled or a seat declared vacant.

The organisation also demanded an investigation into allegations against Gazi Nazrul regarding the abuse of his office and influence.

TIB said it again recommended an effective code of conduct for elected public representatives in its reform proposals submitted to the government in 2026.

“The problem has been identified, and the way forward is also known -- so why is there still no interest in implementation?” Iftekharuzzaman questioned.