Dhaka, Oct 27 (V7N)- The Election Commission (EC) has clarified that the Shapla symbol cannot be allocated to the National Citizens Party (NCP) as it is not included in the rules. Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed said the commission will issue a public notice assigning another symbol at its discretion.

Speaking at a press conference at the Election Building on Monday afternoon, Akhtar Ahmed also announced that the final list of polling stations for the next parliamentary elections has been set at 42,761. Across the country, there are 2,44,649 polling rooms and around 12,000 temporary rooms, with an average of 3,000 voters per room.

He added that the final list of political party and observer registrations will be published this week. With the approval of the Representation of the People Order (RPO) in the Advisory Council, the EC will also decide on party symbol usage in coalition elections.

Addressing concerns about minor delays, he said, “We are slightly behind on two issues—the registration of political parties and domestic observer organizations. Some field information has been collected, and we hope to complete these processes this week. There is no reason to worry; the work will be finished on time.”

Responding to questions about a referendum and the NCP symbol, Akhtar Ahmed reiterated, “Since the Shapla symbol is not in the rules, it cannot be given to the NCP. The EC will assign another symbol publicly. I have no information about the referendum at this time.”

END/SMA/AJ