Party symbols in mayor polls hinge on parliament’s decision

The Election Commission (EC) on Sunday (February 22) said the use of party symbols in upcoming mayoral elections will be determined by the Jatiya Sangsad, as the matter requires parliamentary approval.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud told reporters that the issue of retaining or scrapping party symbols for mayoral posts rests largely with parliament, where the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) currently holds a majority and has formed the government.

Referring to an ordinance related to party nominations for mayoral candidates, he said that, to his knowledge, the provision for party-based mayoral nominations had been removed through an ordinance. However, once parliament begins its session, the bill or ordinance must be ratified. “If it is approved, elections will be held accordingly. If it is amended and reverted to the previous framework, the polls will follow that structure,” he said, adding that the Commission is awaiting parliament’s decision.

On reserved women’s seats in parliament, the commissioner said the process has already begun. Candidates nominated by political parties represented in parliament are expected to be elected, as per the existing system, and parties have initiated preliminary procedures.

Under the law, elections to reserved women’s seats must be completed within 90 days of MPs taking oath. The EC is preparing to conclude the process within the stipulated timeframe, he added.