BNP, Jamaat accuse each other of breaching election rules in CEC talks

Ahead of the upcoming elections, both BNP and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami have lodged separate complaints with the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, accusing each other of violating the election code of conduct.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed told journalists that the party had complied with the Election Commission's request by suspending its chairman, Tarique Rahman's non-political programme.

"This was not due to the code of conduct, but at the EC's request. Yet, key leaders of various political parties are making statements and issuing remarks that clearly breach the code. The Election Commission has so far remained passive. We hope they will take action," he said.

On the same day, a Jamaat delegation, led by Assistant Secretary General AHM Hamidur Rahman, met the CEC. Speaking to reporters, Rahman said that the party had submitted extensive documentation of alleged code violations but had seen no response so far. He also raised concerns over unequal provision of protocol and security for party leaders.

"One of the fundamental requirements for fair elections is a level playing field. If administrative neutrality is not ensured, there can be no level playing field. Campaigning is not supposed to start before 22 January, yet in several areas, some candidates are campaigning freely," he said.

According to the election timetable, the last date for nomination withdrawals is 20 January, followed by symbol allocation on 21 January. Official campaigning is set to begin on 22 January and will continue till 10 February at 7:30am.

BNP pushes for voter slip changes

BNP has proposed allowing party symbols and candidates' names to appear on local voter slips to boost voter turnout. Currently, under the code of conduct, voter slips can only include the voter's name, voter number, and polling centre, with no mention of party names, symbols, or candidate photos.

Salahuddin said, "We have highlighted that voter slips should make it easier for people to participate in the elections. Including the voter number, candidate name, and symbol on the slip would help, and we have suggested the EC reconsider this."

Responding to questions about the complaints from BNP and Jamaat regarding code of conduct violations, Election Commissioner Brigadier General (Retd.) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah said that a formal complaint management system is in place to handle all such allegations.

"The complaint management process is a normal part of elections. You will see in the news today how many notices we have issued, fines imposed, and actions taken. These processes are ongoing and will continue. Those with grievances should definitely file their complaints. Our goal is to ensure that the elections are free and fair," he said.

Today (15 January), the Election Commission (EC) approved 60 and rejected 29 appeals filed against the Returning Officer's decisions on nomination papers, covering a total of 104 cases.