Nagorik Oikya first sought ‘Shapla’ and was denied, why the debate now, asks CEC

The Election Commission (EC) is set to review the National Citizen Party’s (NCP) request for allocation of the “Shapla” (water lily) symbol in an upcoming meeting, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin said on 25 September. The NCP formally applied to amend The Conduct of Election Rules, 2008, to include “Shapla,” “White Shapla,” or “Red Shapla” as their electoral symbol.

CEC Nasir Uddin explained that no decision will be made unilaterally; the Commission will discuss the matter collectively before taking further steps. He also pointed out that although Nagorik Oikya initially sought the Shapla symbol, the EC had rejected their request, raising questions about the current debate surrounding it.

The final list of election symbols was published recently, with the EC Secretary permitting parties to apply for alternative symbols, leading to the NCP’s renewed application for “Shapla”. The CEC emphasized that any party can submit letters and political negotiations happen in the country’s interest; the EC will consider all requests fairly.

Addressing concerns about the NCP’s insistence posing a threat, the CEC said politicians may say many things, but the Commission operates according to the law and does not see this as a threat. He reiterated that the Commission will conduct elections based on the Representation of the People Order (RPO) — which currently does not include the proportional representation (PR) system — and supported a political consensus.

The 13th national election is planned for the first half of February 2026, before Ramadan. The EC is making all necessary preparations to ensure a transparent and fair election process, relying on cooperation from all political parties and stakeholders for a smooth process.