National polls: EC asks BTV to broadcast BNP chief's address on 9 Feb
EC says equal campaign access on BTV is vital to ensuring a free and fair election
The Election Commission (EC) has directed Bangladesh Television (BTV) to make arrangements for the broadcast of BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman's address on 9 February as part of the official election campaign.
In a letter sent today (3 February), EC Public Relations Director Md Ruhul Amin Mallick informed the BTV director general of the decision, stressing the importance of ensuring a level playing field in the election campaign.
The letter said creating a conducive electoral environment is essential for holding a free, fair and acceptable election, and that providing equal campaign opportunities on BTV for all political parties can play a key role in achieving that goal.
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The commission has therefore issued instructions regarding the allocation of broadcast slots for electioneering by chiefs of other political parties on Bangladesh Television.
According to Sub-rule (c) of Rule 6 (Public Meetings, Road Meetings and Rally Events) of the National Assembly Election Conduct Rules, 2025, campaign slots are to be allocated in the order in which written applications are received.
BTV will determine the duration of each slot for party chiefs and, in consultation with the relevant political parties, fix the date and time for recording the campaign speeches.
The Election Commission noted that all political parties seeking airtime on BTV will be allowed to deliver their speeches in the order of their applications.
However, as no applications were received from any party other than the BNP, the commission has asked the BNP chief to take the necessary steps to deliver the address in the final slot requested, scheduled for 9 February.
A total of 51 political parties have fielded candidates in the upcoming elections slated for 12 February. Campaigning will remain open until 7:30am on 10 February.
