Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal has said the commission would examine the legal scopes of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's participation in the next parliamentary elections when the time comes.
He made the remark in response to journalists' questions during a press briefing at the Nirbachon Bhaban on Wednesday.
The CEC said the commission will follow the law when it comes to Khaleda Zia's participation in the polls.
He said: "Nothing about this (Khaleda Zia's participation) is known to us. We will examine the legality of the situation regardless of who stands in the election. We have a set of laws in place. One must adhere to that framework in order to vote. We shall verify the legality of the BNP chairperson's electoral bid if it occurs at all.”
In response to the question whether there is any legal issue, Commissioner Rasheda Sultana said that there is nothing to say in advance about the legal aspect.
Khaleda Zia, convicted in a corruption case, submitted nomination papers for three seats in the 11th National Assembly elections. All her nominations were rejected and the appeal did not last.
CEC Awal said that foreign observers will be warmly welcomed during the national polls.
He said: “Those who are interested to cover the polls should apply for a visa. This is a matter for the home ministry and the foreign ministry.”