The National Citizens’ Party (NCP) will not be allotted the Shapla (water lily) election symbol, as it is not included in the Election Commission’s (EC) list of assignable symbols. This was confirmed by EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed during a briefing on contemporary issues at the Election Commission building on Tuesday (October 14).
The Secretary stated that if the NCP does not accept a symbol other than Shapla, the EC will assign a symbol at its discretion. If the NCP fails to make a decision regarding the symbol by October 19, the EC will make the decision on their behalf.
He emphasized,
“The Shapla symbol is not in the EC’s list of assignable symbols. Therefore, it cannot be allotted to the NCP.”
It is noteworthy that the NCP has remained firm on obtaining the Shapla symbol, holding multiple meetings with the EC and submitting letters. The party has also warned it may take to the streets to secure the symbol if necessary.
Meanwhile, regarding whether a referendum will be held for the implementation of the July Charter, the EC has not yet received the proposal. The Secretary said the EC will take action once it receives recommendations from the commission.
The briefing also mentioned that, regarding the upcoming national parliamentary election, the EC will hold a meeting with the Army, Navy, Air Force, and law enforcement agencies on October 20.