Election Commissioner Rashida Sultana on Monday reiterated that even if BNP decides to join the 12th national parliamentary elections, the elections must be held by January 28.
There is no opportunity to go beyond this period according to the constitution, she said while speaking at a preparation meeting in Bogra on Monday ahead of polls.
While responding to a question of a journalist, Commissioner Rashida said that the Election Commission (EC) will encourage all registered political parties to participate in the elections.
“We are still hopeful that they (BNP) will join the polls. If BNP comes then we will definitely take it into consideration. In fact, they have to come during our election period. We cannot go beyond January 28.
This is a provision of the constitution,” she said.
Rashida said that the EC wants to complete the upcoming elections in a free and fair manner.
“In this regard, all kinds of situations are under our control. We want all registered political organizations to participate in the elections,” she added.
“Let the election be a participatory election. This is our ultimate desire. We are trying again and again to bring those who do not want to join the election,” the election commissioner added further.
Earlier on November 20, Rashida said that the Election Commission is open to considering rescheduling the January 7 parliamentary polls if the BNP and other parties decide to participate in them.
In this scenario, the BNP is required to formally inform the Election Commission about its intention to join the election, she said.
On November 15, Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal announced the upcoming 12th National Parliament schedule. The election will be held on January 7.
The announcement of the election commission was rejected by the BNP and like-minded parties, which have been enforcing hartals and blockades demanding the resignation of the government and the EC.
According to the schedule, 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.
