Now CEC says election can be rescheduled if BNP decides to join
The next general election can be rescheduled if BNP wants to join the election, said Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal on Sunday.
"We can't postpone the election but our election commissioners said the election can be rescheduled if BNP wants to participate in the election," he said while talking to reporters at the media centre of the Nirbachan Bhaban in Dhaka.
Despite repeated requests to join the election, BNP refused, he said.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
"Still there is time and it could be easier for us through compromise. I hope it will be a fortune for the whole nation if they [BNP] come to the election as we want a participatory election," said the CEC.
They (BNP) will be accommodated after rescheduling the election, he said adding, "We'll do what should be better for the sake of election and we will do everything as per our jurisdiction."
Earlier on 19 November, Election Commissioner Md Alamgir said the commission will provide assistance to the BNP if the party expresses willingness to join the elections.
However, he added that it is not the commission's responsibility to influence any political party over its decision regarding coming to the polls.
On 20 November, Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana indicated the potential reconsideration or extension of the election schedule should BNP and its allied parties express intentions to join the electoral process.
Later on 23 November, Election Commissioner Anisur Rahman said the Election Commission will consider deferring the 12th Jatiya Sangsad elections if "one party" participates, without naming the party.
Code of conduct not applicable till election candidature is finalised
Kazi Habibul Awal said the electoral code of conduct is not applicable before the finalisation of the candidate lists of various parties for the 12th Jatiya Sangsad polls.
"The Code of Conduct 2008 only mentions candidates. Nominated candidates or prospective candidates are not candidates. Candidates who are finally eligible after filing nomination will be allotted the symbol.
"From that day the opportunity of election campaign will be given to them. What is happening before will not be considered as election campaign."
