NCP objects to using Tarique, Ziaur Rahman's photos in poll campaign

National Citizen Party (NCP) is insisting on implementing the ban on using the picture of anyone other than the party chief in election campaigns.

The NCP made this demand while participating in the Election Commission (EC) dialogue with political parties at the Nirbachan Bhaban in Agargaon on Wednesday.

NCP Joint Member Secretary Zahirul Islam Musa said: "We welcome the provision of not using the picture of anyone other than the party chief in campaigning. Now that Khaleda Zia is the head of BNP - in that case, if the picture of Tarique Rahman or former President Ziaur Rahman is used, the EC must take action. This will show the Commission's capacity."

NCP Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwari said that even if an electoral alliance is formed, everyone should seek votes under their own party's symbol - he requested the EC to stand firm on this decision. He said: "It is not right to wear someone else's clothes. This time, there is an opportunity to go to the people with your own party."

He further proposed that if each party appoints an EC-designated responsible officer, election-related communication will be easier.

Zahirul Islam Musa called the provision of making it mandatory to use cloth on billboards unnecessary and impractical. He said: "The party expenditure limit is Tk50 lakh, but Tk 20 lakh is spent on a single billboard. This creates unequal competition. Although there are some good provisions in the law, many parts are unclear and weak."

Questioning the implementation of the microphone noise limit of 60 decibels, he questioned that is there the necessary equipment to measure noise at the field level? He also expressed doubts about the EC’s ability to implement these measures, such as controlling the noise of weapons during elections and the security of candidates. He demanded equal opportunities for young candidates and arrangements for open debates with former ministers and MPs.

NCP Senior Joint Member Secretary Dr. Tasnim Zara suggested coordination with social media platforms including Meta and TikTok to prevent misuse of artificial intelligence.

The dialogue, led by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, was attended by other election commissioners, senior EC officials, and representatives of various political parties.