BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan has reiterated that the upcoming national elections must be held on time, stating that there is no reason for any delay unless an unavoidable emergency arises.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission office in Dhaka, Nazrul Islam Khan said the BNP is “fully prepared and on track” for the 13th National Parliamentary Election.
He expressed hope that BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia would soon recover, return to the country, and actively participate in election-related activities.
He also dismissed any concerns regarding the voter status of acting chairman Tarique Rahman.
Stressing the importance of maintaining the electoral timeline, the BNP urged the Election Commission to announce the election schedule without delay “so that voters’ rights are not hindered.”
During the meeting with the CEC, the BNP delegation raised several issues, including increasing the number of polling centres and booths and extending voting hours to ensure a smooth voting process.
“The 13th parliamentary polls will require two ballots, which will take extra time. The number of voters has also increased. We informed the CEC of our concerns about whether every voter will be able to cast their vote,” the BNP leader said.
According to him, the Election Commission assured the delegation that it would hold a meeting soon to decide on these matters.
Nazrul Islam further emphasised that the BNP wants to ensure voters face no difficulties at polling centres and urged the Commission to make necessary arrangements to facilitate uninterrupted voting for all.
He added that the party reiterated its opposition to allowing private or non-government printing presses to handle ballot printing.
