Gazi Nazrul Case: TIB Calls for Code of Ethical Conduct for MPs

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has questioned how Gazi Nazrul Islam, MP for Satkhira-4, can continue to hold his parliamentary seat despite allegations of an “extramarital relationship” with teenage Mariam Khatun, allegedly providing her with a job in Parliament and offering her father a contractor’s licence and government work, later claiming Mariam as his second wife, being expelled from his party after an internal investigation found “moral misconduct”, and now being arrested and placed on a four-day police remand in a case over Mariam’s alleged suicide.

TIB called for an impartial and independent investigation into Mariam’s death and the alleged sextortion or sexual blackmail preceding it. The organisation also urged the Speaker to determine how to address the situation, which it said is damaging to the dignity of Parliament. At the same time, TIB reiterated its longstanding demand for a specialised and mandatory code of ethical conduct for elected representatives.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said no one can be declared guilty before allegations are proven. However, he said it cannot be acceptable for an MP to continue holding office despite being responsible for a situation that is damaging to the dignity of Parliament and other MPs.

He questioned how other MPs, regardless of political affiliation, view Gazi Nazrul Islam retaining his seat after being expelled from his party following an internal investigation that found “moral misconduct”, facing serious allegations involving the use of his position and influence, and being arrested and remanded in a case over the unusual death of his alleged second wife.

“Why should there be no accountability for a person responsible for a situation that damages the dignity of Parliament?” he asked.

He said the series of serious allegations and ethical questions surrounding an elected representative is degrading to the dignity of Parliament and deeply embarrassing for MPs. Criminal liability will be determined by the court, he said, but Parliament has a responsibility to ensure accountability regarding MPs’ ethics, use of power and public trust. Therefore, the National Parliament and the Election Commission must immediately clarify what measures are being taken regarding his parliamentary position.

Dr Iftekharuzzaman said the demand for a specialised, comprehensive and mandatory code of ethical conduct for MPs is not new. When the proposed “Members of Parliament Conduct Bill-2010”, based on TIB’s original draft, was placed before Parliament in 2010, TIB called for its swift passage and the formation of an “Ethics Committee” representing all political parties.

The proposed bill contained provisions against using influence for personal interests, avoiding conflicts of interest and making recommendations for appointments, promotions or transfers. However, the initiative did not become law.

He said the need for such legislation was recognised again amid expectations of state reforms after 2024. The Election System Reform Commission recommended enacting a separate “Members of Parliament Conduct Act-2010” for MPs.