NDM says right to use coalition symbol during elections cannot be stripped by law
The National Democratic Movement (NDM) has called for restoring the right to contest elections using the coalition's electoral symbol saying such a right cannot be taken away by law.
During a dialogue organised by the Election Commission held at the EC Bhaban in Agargaon today (19 November), NDM Secretary General Mominul Amin objected to the amendment introduced before the announcement of the election schedule, which mandates that parties must contest the polls using their own electoral symbol even if they form a coalition.
"Such a right cannot be taken away by law," he said, adding that the sudden change has created serious complications in the electoral strategies and preparations of registered political parties.
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He said the primary purpose of forming a coalition is to present voters with a clear and unified message through a strong common symbol.
He described the amendment as an absurd event, comparing it to "getting married but being forbidden to call one's father-in-law 'father'," and urged the authorities to reconsider the decision immediately.
He also highlighted the impracticality of several provisions in the electoral code of conduct and pressed for their amendment or withdrawal.
Mominul also demanded withdrawing impractical provisions from the electoral code of conduct, and ensuring that the field administration remains free from partisan influence.
He also expressed deep concern over the Election Commission's (EC) failure to adequately consider its proposals during the recent dialogue.
