Major Overhaul in Electoral Rules: No More Posters or Party Symbols in Local Polls

Following the precedent set in the 13th National Parliamentary Election, posters will no longer be permitted in the upcoming local government elections, confirmed Senior Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud.

In an exclusive interview, he revealed that significant amendments are being integrated into the local government election rules to make the process more streamlined. Under the revised regulations, the existing provisions for online nomination submission and the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are being scrapped. Furthermore, the local polls will be entirely non-partisan, meaning political party symbols will be disallowed. The commission is also abolishing the requirement for independent candidates to gather signatures from 1% of voters, while planning to increase the security deposit amounts for all tiers except the Upazila elections. Additionally, there will be no postal or expatriate voting options, and fugitives or individuals chargesheeted under the ICT Act will be barred from contesting. The Election Commission (EC) aims to finalize these draft rules by June and commence the local elections in October.

Highlighting the framework for a fair election, Commissioner Masud emphasized four crucial pillars: the government's absolute neutrality, responsible conduct by political parties, an uncompromising stance from the EC, and the integrity of polling officials. He noted that while strict laws will be enforced to curb violence, political parties must show genuine commitment to maintaining peace. Commending the cooperation of major alliances during the last general election, he expressed hope that candidates would refrain from creating unrest. However, he warned that adequate law enforcement will be deployed, and the EC will not hesitate to exercise its authority to suspend voting centers immediately if any malpractice or irregularities are detected.