Muktdesh Desk: BNP does not agree with the amendment to the Representation of the People Order (RPO) regarding the obligation of parties to vote with their own symbols in the event of an alliance. The party has written to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin demanding the reinstatement of the previous provision in Article 20 of the RPO.
A two-member delegation including BNP Chairperson’s advisor Mohammad Ismail Zabiullah submitted the letter to the EC on Sunday (October 26).
At that time, the BNP delegation discussed the RPO amendment with CEC AMM Nasir Uddin. After the meeting, Ismail Zabiullah presented the party’s position to journalists.
The BNP Chairperson’s advisor said, ‘Even if you form an alliance, you will have to vote with your own symbols – BNP does not agree with this amendment to the Representation of the People Order.’ BNP has sent a letter to the CEC to restore the previous status quo.’
He said, this amendment was not proposed by any political party. BNP does not agree with it. This is unacceptable. BNP believes that democratic rights have been violated by taking such a decision without discussion.’
Ismail Zabiullah said that a letter will also be sent to the advisory level in this regard, saying, ‘The parties should have the right to choose their symbols when they form an alliance.’
It is noteworthy that the Election Commission recently finalized the amendment to Article 20 of the Representation of the People Order (RPO). Where it has been made mandatory for every candidate to contest under the symbol of their own party even in alliance elections.
BNP has officially sent a letter to the Election Commission demanding the cancellation of this amendment.
