Despite the commencement of the nomination form sale for the upcoming 12th National Parliamentary Election on Monday, the Jatiya Party’s (JaPa) participation in the forthcoming election remains uncertain. A final decision regarding the party's involvement is still pending.
JaPa Secretary-General Mujibul Haque Chunnu made the remarks during a press conference at the JaPa chairman's office in Banani, Dhaka on Monday.
Mujibul Haque Chunnu said: "We have initiated the process of going to that election. The primary tasks for participating in the election, which are crucial, include the sale and selection of nomination forms for the party. Our board will conduct interviews and choose candidates. Then, the final list of candidates will be provided."
The JaPa secretary-general said: "We have started the process for participating in this election today (Monday), but it is not our final decision. We are taking the necessary steps for the election. We will request the concerned parties to ensure that the elections are fair, that the voters can exercise their right to vote, and that such an environment is created.”
He further said: "The Jatiya Party is an election-focused party. We had high hopes that the election would take place in a joyful environment. We wanted the people of the country to vote spontaneously in that election, and all parties would participate."
According to Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal's announcement, the 12th national election is scheduled to take place on January 7. Nomination papers can be submitted until November 30, with the selection process scheduled from December 1 to 4. The last date for withdrawal of nomination papers is December 17.
Symbols will be allotted on December 18, with 14 days allocated for the submission of nomination papers and 19 days for campaigning. The campaigning period is set to conclude 48 hours before polling, providing an opportunity for candidates to campaign from December 18 to January 5.
Despite the announcement of the details, the ruling Awami League and the Jatiya Party have started preparations for the election, but the BNP and some other opposition parties are planning strikes and protests.
Meanwhile, Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana has expressed the desire for a fair election with the participation of all parties. She said EC is open to considering rescheduling the upcoming national election if the BNP and other parties decide to participate.
Human rights activists, political analysts, and partner countries have been discussing the need for dialogue to achieve reconciliation in Bangladesh's current political situation. However, the country's two main political parties are not willing to engage in unconditional dialogue. Before announcing the schedule for the 12th Parliamentary Election, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Donald Lu, reached out to the country's three main parties, urging them to participate in talks.
After receiving the letter, Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader said: "There is no conducive environment for going to the election. In this situation, there is a fear of sanctions if we participate in the election."