Will Bangladesh's NCP Reject EC Registration Over Shapla Symbol Dispute?
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Synopsis
In Bangladesh's political turmoil, the NCP demands recognition of the Shapla symbol, threatening to reject registration if ignored. This escalating standoff could impact the upcoming elections significantly.
Key Takeaways
- NCP demands Shapla symbol for registration.
- Threat of registration rejection if demands are not met.
- Call for removal of other electoral symbols like Sheaf of Paddy.
- Potential impact on the upcoming elections.
- Push for an independent election commission.
Dhaka, Oct 10 (NationPress) In a deepening political crisis in Bangladesh as the nation gears up for next year's elections, the National Citizen's Party (NCP) has issued a warning that it will refuse to accept its registration unless the Election Commission (EC) grants them the Shapla (water lily) as their official electoral symbol, according to local media reports.
NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary made this declaration during a press conference following a two-hour dialogue with Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin.
“For our registration to hold, it must include the Shapla symbol. The NCP will not consent to any registration that does not feature this symbol,” Patwary stated, as quoted by the prominent newspaper, The Daily Star.
Reinforcing their demand for the Shapla as their electoral symbol, the NCP has also called upon the EC to eliminate other national emblems, such as the “Sheaf of Paddy” and the “Star”, from the election symbol roster if their request is denied.
“The EC must choose from two options — either revoke symbols like Dhan (paddy), Tara (star), and Sonali Aash (golden fibre), or grant the Shapla symbol. We do not wish for the symbols of any allied political parties to be rescinded,” the NCP leader emphasized.
Earlier this week, the NCP cautioned that failing to secure the Shapla symbol could have significant ramifications for the upcoming elections.
This statement follows the EC's recent instruction to the NCP to select an electoral symbol from a list of 50 options, which notably excluded the requested Shapla, as reported by local media outlets.
In an interview with The Daily Star, Patwary expressed that if their demand is unmet, the party will strive to establish an independent and constitutional EC through democratic processes.
“Should we be denied the Shapla symbol, it will undoubtedly influence the election outcome. A fair election cannot occur without an independent commission. If the polls are unjust, there may be unrest on the streets. However, we aim to prevent such scenarios. If we are cornered, we will have no option but to resist,” Patwary remarked.
“If our right is infringed, we will work towards establishing a democratic and independent election commission. We will not retreat from our objectives and will persist in our political struggle,” he added.
The political landscape in Bangladesh is currently marked by rising uncertainty and turmoil as the nation approaches the upcoming elections.
Previously, student leaders had allied with Muhammad Yunus and various radical political factions to challenge the democratically elected government of the Awami League led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Point of View
It is essential to understand the ramifications of the NCP's demands on the electoral process. Both the NCP's insistence on the Shapla symbol and the EC's authority to regulate electoral symbols reflect the complexity of Bangladesh's political landscape. This situation requires careful navigation to ensure a fair and democratic election, which is crucial for the country's stability.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCP's main demand?
The NCP is demanding that the Election Commission allocate the Shapla (water lily) as its electoral symbol.
What will happen if the NCP does not receive the Shapla symbol?
The NCP has threatened to reject its registration, which could have significant implications for the upcoming elections.
What other symbols does the NCP want removed?
The NCP has called for the removal of other national emblems such as the Sheaf of Paddy and the Star from the election symbol list.
How does the NCP plan to respond if their demand is not met?
The NCP intends to work towards forming an independent and constitutional election commission through democratic means.
What is the current political climate in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh is currently experiencing growing uncertainty and political turmoil as it approaches the upcoming elections.
