NCP can’t be allotted ‘shapla’ symbol: EC secy

Jatiya Nagorik Party (NCP) will not be allowed to use ‘Shapla’ symbol, as it is not listed in the election regulations, said Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.

Speaking at a press briefing at EC headquarters at Agargaon in Dhaka on Tuesday, he stated that the party has until October 19 to select an election symbol from EC’s official list. If not, the Commission will assign a symbol at its discretion.

“We held a two to two-and-a-half-hour meeting with NCP,” said Ahmed. “They asked for clarification and we provided it. EC’s position on Shapla symbol remains unchanged.”

He emphasized that the symbol cannot be allotted due to its absence from the legal framework.

Regarding overseas voters, the secretary said progress is being made. Voter list updates are ongoing in 11 countries and 4 more will soon be added.

EC also hopes to launch a mobile app for expatriate voting in early November.

He further mentioned that election equipment required for February’s national election has already been received. On local election observation, he thanked journalists for their cooperation.

In response to a question about a possible referendum, Ahmed stated that no such proposal has yet been placed before the Commission.

Investigations into the registration of 12 new political parties are also underway both at secretariat and field levels, he added.