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Published : 29 Dec 2025, 11:16 AM
The majority of party-backed and independent candidates are expected to submit their nomination papers on Monday, the final day for filing ahead of the 13th national election.
The Election Commission (EC) said candidates will be able to submit their papers to returning and assistant returning officers between 9am and 5pm.
As of Sunday, a total of 3,144 nomination papers had been collected, while 116 had already been submitted, according to EC officials.
Senior political figures, including BNP chief Khaleda Zia, the party’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convenor Nahid Islam, are among those expected to file their nominations on the final day.
Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Masud said the process had so far proceeded smoothly.
“So far, everyone has been following the code of conduct. The overall environment remains good, and no complaints have been lodged."
While political activities are ongoing, the commissioner reiterated that campaigning is not permitted before the official window opens.
A total of 58 registered political parties, including the BNP, Jamaat and the NCP, are eligible to contest the election. The Awami League will not take part, as its registration remains suspended.
Party-backed candidates are required to submit endorsement certificates from their respective parties. Independent candidates must submit a list of supporters equivalent to 1 percent of the electorate in their constituency, unless they are former members of parliament.
Candidates must also deposit Tk 50,000 and submit affidavits and other required documents at the time of filing.
Under the electoral code of conduct, no more than five people may be present during the submission of nomination papers, and any procession or show of strength is prohibited.
The Election Commission said 69 returning officers and 499 assistant returning officers have been appointed to oversee the process nationwide.
The election schedule was announced by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Dec 11. Under that schedule, Monday is the final day for submitting nomination papers.
Asked about a possible extension, Masud said no decision had been made.
“If the major political parties request it, the commission may consider extending the deadline by one or two days. But so far, no such request has been made.”
Polling is scheduled for Feb 12, 2026, with voting set to take place from 7:30am to 4:30pm.
